Contributing Training Providers
Contributing Green Skills training providers
Northern Ireland Electricity Networks Apprenticeship Academy (NIE)
NIE Networks operates a number of bespoke, in‑house training facilities across Northern Ireland to support its Apprentice Academy, workforce development, and technical skills training. Training is delivered through a combination of on‑the‑job experience and structured off‑the‑job learning, with many programmes holding industry and professional accreditation.
Plans are in place to develop a new, purpose‑built training school that will act as a single, centralised hub for technical training delivery for NIE Networks. The proposed facility will replace the existing jointing, metering, and plant training facilities while introducing new overhead line and network operational training capabilities.
The development will provide sufficient capacity to onboard all new apprentices, supporting the growing intake of apprentices required in the coming years while providing upskilling and refresher training for existing employees. The facility will also support the scaling of contractor resources by enabling training and workforce growth.
The building has been designed to be carbon‑neutral in the long term, reflecting a strong commitment to a sustainable, low‑carbon future, and presents opportunities to support Green Skills action plans, sector collaboration, and the promotion of STEM careers through outreach initiatives.
As part of the NIE Networks Apprenticeship Academy, technical qualifications are obtained through a long‑established collaborative relationship with Northern Regional College (NRC). This partnership has helped deliver high‑quality, industry‑led technical education and apprenticeship training that supports the development of a skilled, future‑ready electricity workforce.
The collaboration is further strengthened through joint initiatives, such as the provision of real‑world network equipment for use within college training environments, enabling apprentices to gain hands‑on experience with live industry assets. This long‑standing partnership ensures training remains relevant, fully accredited, and aligned with industry standards, while supporting NIE Networks’ strategic workforce planning, green skills development, and long‑term network investment programmes.
The Joint Utilities Installation Operative Entry‑Level Programme is a 22‑week programme developed collaboratively by asset owners and employers. It is designed to support individuals into employed status, with participants receiving a salary throughout the programme. All training delivered is fully accredited and provides a strong foundation of industry‑relevant technical skills.
These skills include First Aid, Manual Handling, Abrasive Wheels, Street Works Operative certification, CSR Card accreditation, and Fire Safety Training. In addition, learners complete specialist modules in both Cable Assets Installation and Gas Assets Installation, ensuring they gain practical, job‑ready skills across key utilities sectors.
- NIE Networks 2026 Apprenticeship Role Specification
- Northern Ireland Electricity Networks Apprenticeship Academy
Horizon Engineering Solutions
Horizon Engineering Solutions are a standalone training organisation offering a City & Guild's Assured, Electrical and Carbon Training Academy and delivers Facility Management Solutions and Carbon Management Solutions to Global Companies across a wide range of business sectors.
Electrical Training Trust (ETT)
The Electrical Training Trust (ETT) is an independent charity that offers a range of accredited and non-accredited electrical training courses, workshops and seminars. These are designed to meet the skills needs of both individuals and businesses in the local area.
ETT helps employers to identify training needs and offers learning opportunities from basic skills training through to Level 3 technical training and Level 4 qualifications. It is an approved training centre for City & Guilds, LCL Awards and NET AM2, and operates under ISO 9001 quality assurance accreditation.
ETT delivers the Electrical Worker Assessment (EWA), a portfolio-based programme for experienced electricians working in the industry, who do not yet have a formal Level 3 qualification. This allows experienced workers to gain a Level 3 electrotechnical qualification and be officially recognised as a qualified electrician.
The NVQ Level 3 Electrical Installation Apprenticeship (Framework 342) is delivered at the ETT Apprenticeship Training Academy in Ballymena. By maintaining strong partnerships with employers and upholding recognised industry standards, ETT aims to support the development of skilled, competent electricians ready to contribute effectively to the workforce.
ETT also provides advice and industry guidance on electrical safety and standards. It helps businesses and individuals understand and apply current regulations and best practice. It promotes safe working environments, encourages compliance and helps to maintain high levels of safety and professionalism across the electrical industry.
Workplus
Workplus brings early talent and future‑focused employers together across Northern Ireland. It connects students, school leavers and career changers with apprenticeships, work experience and entry‑level opportunities from innovative employers.
Whether you’re taking your first career step or growing your workforce, Workplus makes it easy to discover opportunities and connections across Northern Ireland.