“I knew straight away I wanted to be in the electrical industry.”
When Daniel Joint tried his hand at being a trainee electrician with Dunedin’s Dalco Electrical Ltd through the EarnLearn Gateway programme he knew he’d found his career path.
“Before I did Gateway I knew I wanted a job that would be hands-on. Originally, I thought I would do mechanical because I wanted to work on my car, then I realised there were some serious opportunities available through the programme so I changed.”
Daniel started his Gateway with Dalco as a Year 13 student at John McGlashan College in 2024, working with the team for 10 hours a week. His hard work and commitment through that time saw him hired by Dalco as an electrical apprentice, training with EarnLearn, early in 2025.
“The great thing about Gateway that’s really helpful is that it lets you show employers things you can’t see on a CV, like how hard you work and how much you enjoy the work.
“It let me prove myself.”
Daniel adds that the whole Dalco team has been supportive through his transition from Gateway student to employee. “They have guided me through to where I am now and it’s been really good working as part of a team. It’s the kind of company where you give a lot to them and they give a lot back.”
One of Daniel’s favourite parts of his job so far has been working on jobs for some of Dalco’s clients in the fuel industry, and says that’s an area he would love to continue working and training in.
“There’s so many pathways electrical can take you down, that people don’t realise.”
Another highlight has been returning to his former school to do some work, and reconnecting with his former Gateway teacher.
“It was cool to be there doing some work in my work kit, and being able to go and see him was pretty special.”
For other high school students considering Gateway Daniel’s best advice is to make the most of the opportunities it offers. “If you have the chance, always give Gateway a go. Do your own research about what’s involved and just be ready to make the most of it. I don’t think most people realise what a big opportunity it offers. It’s not just a day off from school.”
