To apply, or learn more about apprenticeships with ESB Networks please visit www.esbnetworks.ie/esb/careers/apprenticeships
Rapid advances in technology and the shift toward sustainability—including a sustainable work-life balance—are driving people towards degree course alternatives that allow them to earn while learning. ESB Networks is lighting a path forward.
“I started college in September 2021, and quickly realised the course was not for me,” recalls Jamie McCourt.
“I took some time off to consider what I should do. I looked into the ESB Networks’ Electrical Apprenticeship, and the chance to earn while I learned sounded brilliant.”
Jamie is one of 280 apprentice electricians from all over the country, accepted into ESB Networks’ Electrical Apprenticeship programme since 2021. The four-year programme, which combines on-the-job training with college classroom work, has grown in recent years to meet the rising demand for skilled tradespeople.
“People are realising that graduating with a degree, debt and no clear path to employment is not necessarily the way to a rewarding career and fulfilling life,” says Kara Keenaghan, the Apprenticeship Programme Manager.
This shift in thinking parallels the transformation of the energy sector. New green energy policies have put electricity and ESB Networks at the forefront of decarbonising our economy. For ESB Network’ apprentices, the evolving energy landscape opens a world of extraordinary opportunities.
The evolving energy landscape opens a world of opportunity
“Upon completing the programme, apprentices have an internationally recognised, advanced Level 6 Electrical Trade Certificate,” explains Kara.
“And, they will also be a qualified Network Technician. Many go on to work with ESB Networks going on call, becoming Network Operators, Cable Joiners and Training Officers or with other companies including our fellow energy utilities here and abroad. The opportunities are unlimited.”
For Conor Fenlon, a graduate of the Apprenticeship Programme now working as an ESB Networks Technician, the opportunities for career stability, continued progression and variety were particularly attractive.
“No day is the same, that’s for sure,” says Conor, who served with the Defence Forces on a UN mission to Syria prior to joining the apprenticeship programme.
“I currently work in overhead line construction, so I do everything from building new connections, to line retirement and patrolling, to installing pole-mounted transformers.”
The variety of indoor and outdoor work, teamwork and great career opportunities are just some of the benefits of an ESB Networks’ Apprenticeship.
While the programme requires an element of physicality, it also demands logical thinking and team work.
“There is definitely an adventurous element to the job,” says Jamie. “We’ve learned to climb electricity poles and pylons, and how to drive all-terrain vehicles. But we are also highly focused on safety, so learning how to assess a situation is a big part of what we learn.”
And, since our current situation demands that we create a low carbon economy, ESB Networks apprentices are building careers with purpose.
“It’s not merely about learning a trade,” says Kara. “It’s about becoming part of a movement that is building a brighter, more sustainable future.”
The ESB Networks Electrical Apprenticeship Opens for Applications on Saturday 1st March 2025 for positions starting in September 2025.
Individuals aged 16 or over with a Junior or Leaving Certificate or equivalent can apply.
