What’s happening?
Stanwell has welcomed six new apprentices and trainees to its Stanwell Power Station site near Rockhampton.
The 2026 group includes four apprentices and two trainees. They are training in mechanical fitting, electrical trades, business administration and supply chain.
The roles are delivered through Stanwell’s Apprenticeship and Trainee Program, which combines on-site experience with formal study through TAFE Queensland.
Over the past five years, 74 apprentices and trainees have joined the program.
Applications for the 2027 intake will open later this year.
Why it matters
Queensland’s energy future depends on skilled workers who understand both traditional generation and emerging technologies.
Stanwell General Manager Central Generation Angie Zahra said developing local capability is essential for long-term success.
“Our apprentices and trainees develop the technical capability and confidence they need to kick-start long and meaningful careers in the energy industry,” Ms Zahra said.
“The experience they gain at Stanwell, working alongside our people and learning in real operational environments sets them up to support Queensland’s energy system into the future.
“Investing in local talent is important to us, because these opportunities allow people to build rewarding careers in Central Queensland, contribute to local growth, and ensure our operations continue to be powered by people who understand and care about the place they call home.”
The program has also delivered strong outcomes, including transitions into permanent roles and growing representation of women in trades.
Local Impact
Stanwell Power Station plays a key role in supplying electricity to the National Electricity Market and large energy users along Australia’s eastern seaboard.
By training locally, Stanwell keeps skills and career pathways in Central Queensland.
With more than 40 years of continuous operations, the company operates the Tarong power stations near Kingaroy and Stanwell Power Station near Rockhampton.
That experience is now being applied to renewable generation, storage and firming projects as Queensland’s energy mix evolves.
By the numbers
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6 new starters in 2026 – Four apprentices and two trainees began their careers at Stanwell Power Station during National Apprenticeship Week.
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74 participants in five years – Since 2021, Stanwell’s development program has supported 74 apprentices and trainees across regional Queensland.
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40+ years of operations – Stanwell has delivered continuous power generation for more than four decades at its major sites.
Zoom in
Riley Richardson, part of Stanwell’s 2025 intake, said the program has accelerated her development.
“From day one, I’ve felt both challenged and supported. I’ve gained confidence, built new skills and learned about the important role Stanwell plays in Queensland’s energy future,” Ms Richardson said.
“I’ve developed strong relationships across site and been exposed to different parts of the business in a short timeframe, which has allowed me to take on meaningful work.”
Her experience reflects how early responsibility and real-world exposure shape capable energy professionals.
Zoom out
Stanwell is Queensland’s leading provider of electricity and energy solutions to the National Electricity Market and major energy users.
Alongside its coal-fired assets, the company is building a more diverse portfolio that includes renewable generation, storage and firming.
Workforce development sits at the centre of that transition.
What to look for next?
Applications for Stanwell’s 2027 Apprenticeship and Trainee intake will open later this year.
For school leavers and jobseekers across Central Queensland, it could be the next step into a long-term energy career.
