The National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) of WA is the only association in the industry that exclusively represents the interests of electrical and communications contractors.

NECA WA actively works on behalf of contractors in dealing with all levels of Government and industry, and ensures members are fully informed on the important issues and developments in our industry. NECA WA is a not for profit organisation with the main objectives of promoting, safeguarding and advancing members' interests.

Current News

NECA WA 2010 Annual Conference

NECA would like to thank all members and Business Partners that supported and attended our 2010 Annual State Conference held in Launceston, Tasmania between 27 February and 3 March. Feedback received to date suggest it was a great success and delegates had a fantastic time.

NECA will be sending out a conference survey to all members in the next week or so to obtain your feedback on what you want to help us work toward an even better event next year.

A post-conference wrap-up will be put together and distributed to all delegates that attended the conference. If anyone has any questions or comments please email Graeme Healey or Lauren Campisi at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

To view some photos please click here. 

Electrical Inspection Forms Now Available

NECA has been working urgently on developing an appropriate form for use when testing a foil insulation installation.

This has now been approved by the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts and is available for use. It is now on the Department’s website at http://www.environment.gov.au/eehp/electrical-safety/electricians.html.

To read a recent article placed in the NECA WA eNews titled 'Home Insulation Program & Safety Inspections - Be warned before getting involved' please click here.

Careers off to a winning start - Blake McCarthy

Blake McCarthy made a milestone achievement this year. In September, he won the 2009 WA Apprentice of The Year Award, making him the first EGT apprentice to ever win a WA Department of Education and Training State Training Award. It is 10 years since an electrician has won this award.

These Awards recognise and reward outstanding achievements of apprentices, trainees and vocational students, and the contribution to training made by trainers, training organisations and employers. There is fierce competition for these awards.

This year, from the 202 applications, 43 went on to become semi-finalists and with 20 apprentices chosen as finalists across all trades state wide.

“You aren’t just competing with apprentices from your industry,” said Blake. “Applicants come from all over WA, from all different industries.”

Blake was recognised for his work in the electrical industry as well as his volunteer work with Armadale Fire & Rescue Service.

He has completed his Certificate III in Electro-technology and Certificate IV in Engineering (Instrumentation).

As a qualified tradesperson, this year he also obtained his Electrical Contractor’s Licence.

Blake received a $7000 study grant and a $400 cash prize. He is planning to use the grant to develop skills that will support him as an Electrical Contractor.

“The best way to move forward with your career is to do extra training and develop additional skills,” Blake explained.

He will now represent WA in the National Training Awards being held in Canberra in November.

Blake McCarthy wins Australian Apprentice of the Year!

At the recent 2009 Australian Training Awards held in Canberra, Blake McCarthy of Electrical Group Training (EGT - part of the NECA WA Group), won Australian Apprentice of the Year.

This is a fantastic achievement for Blake and it highlights the exceptional standard of apprentices coming through EGT in recent times.

Blake is currently working with Host Employer, WA Water Corporation.

A firm believer in lifelong learning, Blake holds more than 10 certificates and qualifications, including first aid, heights training and engineering.

After gaining his electrical trade certificate and electrician’s licence earlier this year, he has become a valuable member of the Water Corporation’s engineering and construction services branch.

Blake’s enthusiasm and desire to excel saw him finish his apprenticeship six months ahead of schedule and earn second place in the 2008 EGT Fourth Year Apprentice of the Year award.

Blake loves the outdoors and is an active member of the Armadale Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, where he is on call around the clock.

Well done Blake.