NIE NETWORKS: “I’m part of an organisation that really matters”

Kathryn Anderson, 21, from Ballycastle, is an Underground Cable Jointer with NIE Networks. At the start of her career, she shares how the Apprentice Academy opened a door she never expected to walk through, and why more young women should feel confident stepping into this world.

Kathryn Anderson grew up hearing about the electricity network at the kitchen table.

Her dad works for NIE Networks in a different discipline, and as a child she loved listening to his stories about the job, the challenges and the importance of the work. Back then, she never imagined she would one day be part of that same world.

“When it came time to decide what to do after school, I started researching apprenticeships with NIE Networks on social media,” she says. “I looked at the different roles and the one that really stood out was cable jointing. I just went for it.”

In September 2023, Kathryn joined the Apprentice Academy and began a two-year Level 2 programme. She completed it in September 2025 and is now an Underground Cable Jointer, working on both the high and low voltage network.

What she remembers most about those first months is how supported she felt.

“Everyone was so welcoming,” she says. “I was learning from experienced jointers who genuinely cared about helping me improve. That made such a difference to my confidence. Finishing my apprenticeship felt like a real achievement. I was proud to be part of the NIE Networks Apprentice Academy.”

She describes it as being part of a team where people truly look out for each other.

“You always feel that people care about how you’re getting on,” she says. “That stays with you.”

Kathryn’s role is hands-on and demanding. A typical day begins at the Ballymena depot, where she meets her team, usually two or three people, sometimes more depending on the task.

“We identify the day’s jobs, assess the risks and decide what gear we need,” she explains. “Safety comes first in this job. Then we load up the van with equipment, jointing kits and testing tools and head out.”

On site, the team inspects the excavation prepared by civil contractors, carries out a risk assessment and identifies the cables to work on. Kathryn then carries out the jointing process, stripping, connecting, insulating and sealing cables to create secure, reliable connections.

“It’s a mix of electrical and mechanical work,” she says. “We provide new connections for customers, upgrade existing ones and carry out improvements across both low and high voltage networks. Precision and safety are everything.”

The work is physically demanding, but she thrives on it.

“I enjoy the challenge and the satisfaction of knowing I’m helping keep the power flowing,” she says. “Every day is different. One day I might be providing a new connection in Ballymena, the next I could be upgrading a substation in Ballycastle. You get to see so many places and you’re always outdoors.”

Recently, Kathryn worked on a cable replacement project outside Ballymoney as part of The Big Network Rebuild.

“I loved knowing it was part of such an important investment in our energy network,enabling more capacity for current and future customers, as we all look towards a decarbonised future.”

Although she is only at the start of her career, Kathryn already has clear ambitions.

“I’m delighted to have completed my apprenticeship and I’m loving my role,” she says. “In the future, I’d like to progress and become an engineer, working on more complex parts of the system. I know that if I work hard, there will be opportunities.”

What she enjoys most is the technical nature of the job.

“I love the hands-on side and making sure everything is done properly and safely,” she explains. “Sometimes jobs don’t go to plan, so you have to find a new solution. I really enjoy that problem-solving part. There’s a real sense of satisfaction when you see a job through and know it’s been done to a high standard.”

Ask Kathryn what the best thing about working for NIE Networks is, and she does not hesitate.

“The people,” she says. “The people make NIE Networks. I love the banter on site. It’s a really supportive environment. I also love being part of an organisation where the work genuinely matters to Northern Ireland.”

Being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry was daunting at first.

“At the start, it can feel intimidating,” she admits. “But honestly, now it’s not even mentioned. I’m just part of the team. The job can be physically tough, but I’m more than capable and I enjoy the challenge.”

Her advice to other young women is simple and direct.

“Believe in yourself. Don’t let the fact it’s male-dominated put you off. If the work interests you, go for it. Take every opportunity to learn, ask questions and build your skills. You don’t need to know everything straight away. Being willing to learn goes a long way.”

Balancing work and life is something Kathryn is learning early.

“I stay organised and make the most of my time off,” she says. “The job is physically demanding, so it’s important to switch off and relax outside of work.”

Her perfect weekend is a blend of rest and connection.

“After a busy week, I love spending time outdoors, catching up with family and friends, and going for coffee or lunch. It helps you reset.”

She credits her training instructors and mentors as her biggest inspirations.

“Their knowledge and experience were incredible,” she says. “They took time with me and the other apprentices, both in the training school and on site. The care and support they gave us is the reason I got through the two years and am where I am today.”

What she is most proud of is completing her apprenticeship.

“It wasn’t easy,” she says. “There were hurdles along the way. Balancing everyday work with studying at Northern Regional College took commitment. But all that hard work paid off, and I’m really proud of myself.”

For Kathryn, the Apprentice Academy did more than teach her a trade. It gave her a place in an industry she once only watched from afar.

“I didn’t have to have it all figured out,” she says. “I just had to be willing to learn.”

Applications for the NIE Networks Apprentice Academy close on 9 February at 11pm. Find out more at www.nienetworks.co.uk/apprenticeships

NIE Networks Apprentice Academy
A New Generation of Talent. A New Kind of Opportunity.

NIE Networks is opening the door to a new generation of talent through its award-winning Apprentice Academy, inviting people to build real, long-term careers in the energy sector.

This is an industry that is changing fast and NIE Networks is clear that its future workforce must reflect the communities it serves. The company actively encourages applications from women, as well as from ethnic minorities, disabled candidates and those seeking a career change, helping to open up roles that many people may never have considered.

Two apprenticeship routes are available, both combining hands-on experience with industry-recognised qualifications and expert mentoring.

Craftsperson Apprenticeships
Open to anyone aged 16+ by September 2026,.Candidates must hold, or expect to achieve, a minimum of 3 GCSE passes at Grades A*-D (Grades 4-9) to include Maths, English and a STEM-related subject.

Roles include:

• Overhead Linesperson
• Underground Cable Jointer
• Plant Maintenance Electrician
• Workshop Electrical and Mechanical Fitter

Apprentices gain Level 2 and Level 3 vocational qualifications through NIE Networks’ dedicated training schools and approved partners.

Higher-Level Electrical Engineering Apprenticeship
For applicants aged 18+ with GCSE Maths and English and A-levels or an Engineering BTEC. This pathway includes a Foundation Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, delivered in partnership with Northern Regional College.Candidates must hold GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above. Have achieved, or expect to achieve, 3 A levels (at grades A*-C) including Maths or Physics or ;BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering (MMP*) or; BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Engineering (MM*)

For over 50 years, the NIE Networks Apprenticeship Programme has shaped careers in the energy sector. It is the only apprenticeship in Northern Ireland to hold Investors in People Platinum accreditation is also accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and proudly recognised by the Department for the Economy (DfE), and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

Applications close on 9 February at 11pm
Find out more and apply at nienetworks.co.uk/apprenticeships