Six apprentices, six stories: Meet the 2026 Apprentice of the Year, Playford Medal finalists Skip to content

Six apprentices, six stories: Meet the 2026 Apprentice of the Year, Playford Medal finalists

Apprentice of the year Graduate dinner  (1) 905 x 428

Every year, we recognise apprentices who have gone above and beyond throughout their training, demonstrating a strong commitment to safety, learning and supporting those around them.

This year's Apprentice of the Year finalists come from a range of teams and locations across South Australia. They have all made the most of the opportunities their apprenticeship has provided and are now helping to build and maintain the network that powers our state. 

Congratulations to Connor from our Marleston South depot, who was named the recipient of this year's Apprentice of the Year and awarded the Playford Medal. We also congratulate fellow finalists Alex, Matthew, Lachlan, Jake and Alec for their outstanding achievements throughout their apprenticeship journeys. 

Recognising excellence

Connor Trade Skilled Worker (Powerline), Marleston South 

Connor is a Trade Skilled Worker in Powerline at our Marleston South depot and this year’s Playford Medal recipient. Known for his leadership, commitment to safety and support of his fellow apprentices, Connor reflects on the experiences that shaped his apprenticeship journey. 

Alex Trade Skilled Worker (Powerline), Mt Gambier 

Alex is a Trade Skilled Worker in Powerline at our Mt Gambier depot and one of six finalists for this year’s Apprentice of the Year award. Recognised for his technical capability, initiative and leadership, Alex shares the experiences that helped shape his career. 

Matthew Trade Skilled Worker (Powerline), Victor Harbor 

Matthew is a Trade Skilled Worker in Powerline at our Victor Harbor depot and one of six finalists for this year’s Apprentice of the Year award. Drawing on experience from the wind farm industry and the MFS, Matthew reflects on his apprenticeship journey and the opportunities it has provided. 

Lachlan Trade Skilled Worker (Electrical), Marleston North 

Lachlan is a Trade Skilled Worker in Electrical at our Marleston North depot and one of six finalists for this year’s Apprentice of the Year award. Known for his technical capability and positive approach, Lachlan shares his experience developing specialist skills and tackling complex challenges throughout his apprenticeship. 

Jake Trade Skilled Worker (Powerline), West Coast 

Jake is a Trade Skilled Worker in Powerline at our West Coast depot and one of six finalists for this year’s Apprentice of the Year award. Known for his positive attitude, strong work ethic and willingness to support others, Jake reflects on the experiences that helped shape his career. 

Alec Trade Skilled Worker (Powerline), Elizabeth 

Alec is a Trade Skilled Worker in Powerline at our [Depot] depot and one of six finalists for this year’s Apprentice of the Year award. Known around the depot as the "walking tool truck", Alec shares how his apprenticeship helped build the technical skills and practical experience that have made him a valued member of the team. 

Ready for what’s next 

This year, 46 apprentices completed their apprenticeship and graduated into the next stage of their careers. 

We’re proud of every graduate for the hard work and dedication it has taken to get here, and we look forward to seeing the difference they’ll continue to make in their teams, communities and across the network. 

Inspired by their stories? Learn more about apprenticeship opportunities at SA Power Networks on our Apprenticeship Programs page

 

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