Jesse’s Story
 At the start of the year, a few guys and myself applied for the VEET, TXU sponsored program. As a part of the program we are required to do a work placement. Monique, the VEET manager, TXU and T-Squared coordinated a range of activities for my first week of work placement. The types of things we did was visit the network services centre where we learnt about the sections of the office, peoples roles and customer service.
The next two days I observed the linesmen, something I wouldn't mind doing as a career. A Linesman’s job is to fix and maintain overhead and underground power lines. A Linesman’s job can be a dangerous job, as they work with high voltage electricity. The guys explained the importance of OH&S issues whilst working as a linesman. A linesman based in the Latrobe Valley can cover a fair distance.
On the first day we traveled to Phillip Island, Wonthaggi , Leongatha and Tarwin Lower. The day went quickly as the guys went from one job to another. The Type of things that required fixing was changing a cross armand tightening up power lines that were sagging lower than regulation height. Unfortunately I wasn’t allowed to help, but watching gave me a real feel and insight to the job.
The days to follow included working with a surveyor. My mate Peter (another VEET student) and I went to Hollands Landing were the surveyor had to inspect poles. Peter and I got to hold a pole reflector whilst the surveyor read off his total station. I then had an opportunity to work with a Technical Officer / Engineer. On this day we went to Sherwood Park to check out an old house that required temporary power supply. The Tech Officer marked out and recorded information. After that we went to Jumbuck to meet with a client about some tree clearing, we just discussed the issues and traveled back. I am so glad I had an opportunity to be involved in the VEET program otherwise I would have never had this opportunity to understand these types of jobs and careers.
“Now I know, I want to be a Linesman”
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NEWSLETTER
