Power network operator Electricity North West is hosting a second open evening for potential engineers of the future following high demand.

Potential applicants to the apprenticeship programme will have another chance to learn more about the business including how it maintains and upgrades tens of thousands of miles of overhead lines and underground cables, as well as its future £1.7bn investment programme and its role in helping the region reduce its carbon emissions.

A tour of Electricity North West’s state-of-the-art Blackburn-based Training Academy will also be available where people will have the chance to meet current apprentices to learn about their experiences.

Chris Havard, apprentice programme manager for Electricity North West, said: “Our first open evening was a resounding success where we had more than 100 people attend to learn all about our apprenticeship programme.

“We sensed a real excitement and buzz and that’s why we’ve made the decision to host a second night where more potential applicants can come and learn about Electricity North West’s plans for the future.

“Our apprenticeship programme is something we’re incredibly proud of and we want to be able to showcase the business to potential applicants who have a passion for engineering and the environment.”

Thirty-three apprenticeships are up for grabs in roles which include IT project management and cyber security, civil engineering, operational engineers, vehicle maintenance, design engineers, underground cable jointers and overhead line workers.

Rachael Parr, Electricity North West’s HR director, added: “Our new intake of apprentices will help play a crucial role in enabling more people to adopt low carbon technologies such as electric vehicles and electric heat pumps.

“We’ve committed to invest in the North West to continue to help deliver one of the UK’s most reliable networks and our latest apprentice recruitment drive is a testament that but also preparing long term, creating more green jobs with green skills.”

The new roles will play a key part in the network’s ambition to lead the North West to net zero while keeping its costs down.

The open evening takes place on Tuesday 7 February between 5 and 7pm at the Dyneley Road facility. Two one-hour slots are available to book - between 5-6pm, and 6-7pm and attendees can attend with their parents or guardian.

Anybody in the North West can attend. Potential applicants are asked to email apprentice.programme@enwl.co.uk.