Holmesglen Institute of TAFE
Holmesglen Institute of TAFE
Jake Carter switched from finance to an electrical apprenticeship, passed his A‑Grade exam on the first attempt and launched his own business, Cardiac Electrical.
His journey shows how a clear apprenticeship pathway and quality training can lead from study to licensing, skilled work, and even business ownership in Victoria.
Jake's passion for learning was reignited when he made the switch from a finance role to an electrical career.
A father-to-be at the time, Jake left the comfort of his career for a new trades role.
“I’ve since found a rewarding, challenging and motivating career with excellent prospects for growth, diversity and financial gain,” Jake says of his new electrical career.
“There was a lot of opportunity for extra-curricular learning [during my apprenticeship], and we learned so much more than you receive at any other institute. Being able to work at my own pace allowed me to complete my studies in three years, whereas it normally takes four,” he explains.
The Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician is designed to give learners the skills and industry insights they need before they apply for their Energy Safe Victoria’s Electrician’s Licence.
Jake received perfect marks for his pre-apprenticeship assessments and passed his A-Grade Electrician’s Exam on his first attempt. His hard work was recognised with Futuretech’s Outstanding Electrotechnology Apprentice Award. He was also a finalist in the Outstanding Apprentice category at our 2019 Holmesglen Awards.
After completing his training with Holmesglen, Jake started his own business, Cardiac Electrical.
As part of his new career, Jake has overseen an eight-person team, embracing the chance to mentor the younger apprentices.
As an employer, Jake believes the electrical field offers many opportunities.
“With an electrical course, more and more young people are entering the trade. It is important that we keep these students motivated and inspired. It is an opportunity to create a highly skilled workforce and lift the entire standard of the industry.”
Starting is straightforward once you follow the right steps and complete a training contract with an employer. Use Holmesglen’s step‑by‑step guide to confirm eligibility, sign up correctly and move from interest to apprenticeship with confidence. Learn more at Apprenticeships: How to Apply.
