CQU training adds spark to Lachie’s GPC apprenticeship

31 March 2025
GPC Apprentice Graduate Lachie Black (centre) with Acting CEO Mr Kim Gebers (left) and (right) Executive General Manager Asset Management Mr Ben Hayden
GPC apprentice graduate Lachie Black (centre) with Acting CEO Mr Kim Gebers (left) and Executive General Manager Asset Management Mr Ben Hayden (right)

By Greg Chapman

Gladstone Ports Corporation (GPC) graduate apprentice Lachie Black is forging a solid career, as an electrician, backed by industry experience and CQUniversity’s TAFE training.

Lachie found a pathway to his apprenticeship at GPC after undertaking work experience while at high school.

“After doing the work experience, I enjoyed the wide range of work at GPC,” he said.

“There are good work crews to learn from and the overall reputation that GPC has made it an easy decision when I got the offer of an apprenticeship.

Lachie’s apprenticeship comprised learning on the job and receiving training in the workshops at CQU’s Gladstone Marina campus.

“The training at CQU was good for learning the entire electrical field,” he said. 

He added the training complemented the variety of experiences onsite, which included industrial maintenance, and commercial and domestic electrical work. 

“This sets me up to pursue whichever electrical work I enjoy most,” he said.

Lachlan’s hard work and dedication was noticed by GPC, who named him Apprentice of the Year in 2024.

“Taking up an apprenticeship has set me up with work for life, while also teaching me valuable life skills outside of work – including how to communicate with people, organise work and home life and meet plenty of new mates” he said.

“I enjoy the work crew at GPC - especially being able to look over the work when you complete it and see the progress. There are so many different jobs to do which keeps it refreshing.”

Start your apprenticeship journey like Lachie by learning more about CQU TAFE apprenticeships.