From electrical apprentice to working in the control room

rachel hoffman, shift operator technician

Rachel Hoffmann joined CS Energy’s Callide Power Station in 2006 and over the next 13 years progressed from an Electrical and Instrumentation Apprentice to senior electrical tradesperson and supervisor roles.

In 2019 she became the first female at Callide to advance from Trades to CS Energy’s plant operator training program. After completing the theory and practical assessments, including Advanced Boiler and Steam Turbine Tickets, Rachel has been working as an Operator Technician.

She is currently working her way through the next phase of the operations training plan to become a Panel Operator.

What prompted you to pursue a career in the energy industry?

I completed various work experience roles at high school, and I decided I wanted to be an Electrician. I really enjoyed the ‘hands on’ nature of the work as well as the creativity it allowed. I also liked that it offered a variety of career paths and the opportunity to work in a career where I could earn enough to support myself financially.

What inspired you to make the switch from Trades to Operations?

I enjoy learning new things and the variety of the plant I get to work with keeps me interested and busy. Operators need to have a good understanding of different fields including electrical, mechanical and chemical. The job itself is always different, there is no way to get bored.

Having a great roster and work-life balance is an added advantage.