NECA has been running this awards program for more than 10 years now to create greater awareness among school students, parents and careers advisors of the enormous range of opportunities available in the electrical sector.

“These Awards are designed to reward two distinct streams of students – those who are aiming for a career in engineering, and those who are already passionately pursuing a career in the electrical industry,” NECA chief executive Suresh Manickam says.

“We are very proud of this program and will be working with government and school bodies to promote this initiative to an even broader range of schools this year,” he adds.

Students currently enrolled in years 9, 10, 11 and 12 are eligible for these awards. We have created two award categories:

• Innovation – for students who have demonstrated excellence in electrical, electronic or communications technology, inside or outside of school, and who have developed innovative projects and/or solutions.

• Commitment to Industry – for students currently undertaking school-based apprenticeships or those who are committed to pursuing an electrical career and have demonstrated this through their work experience.
Previous winners have presented projects in areas such as robotics, mechatronics, electrical engineering, as well as sound and lighting.

Prizes:
• 1st place in each category will receive a prize of $1000;
• 2nd place students will receive $500; and
• 3rd place $250.

NECA acknowledges the ongoing support of NHP Electrical Engineering Products who sponsor these awards. NHP is proud to encourage talented students to develop their skills in order to secure career prospects in this specialised sector.

“As the major sponsor, NHP takes great pleasure in their involvement in the School Student National Awards and will continue to work with NECA in their quest to ensure the future life-blood of our industry are offered the pathways to ensure a successful future,” Lloyd Thomas, NHP’s chief executive, managing director.