The electrical trades can be a family affair, just like being a member of the mighty Electrical Trades Union.
Bob, Ashley and Nick Burt are just such a family. Three generations of electrical trades workers, all members of their union, CEPU SA, and all now working for SA Power networks.
The family’s journey begins with Bob Burt. Bob has been a CEPU SA member for 49 years. Bob started his career with SA Power Networks when it was the State Government owned entity, the Electricity Trust of South Australia (ETSA) back in August 1974. Bob started his role with ETSA as an electrical trade linesman and cable jointer.
Late in 1999, after the company was privatised by the then State Government of SA, Bob’s work changed, and Bob became a works coordinator for Substation Maintenance and Ancillary Services.
Continuing the legacy of electrical trade workers and union members in the Burt family is Bob’s son, Ashley. Ashley has been a
CEPU member for 24 years and started working for SA Power Networks in 2001. Ashley started in the CBD group as a Powerline and Lead cable jointer and now works in the Substation Maintenance Ancillary group as a works co-ordinator.
“I’m happy to be part of our team and proud of what they have achieved for workers over the years. It’s been great to work here, and I really enjoy working with the all the associated stakeholders.”
Ashley’s son and Bob’s grandson Nick is the third generation of the Burt family to work for SA Power networks, continuing the rounding out the family tradition.
Like his Dad and Grandad, Nick is a proud CEPU SA member.
Nick started his electrical apprenticeship in 2017 in the commercial construction industry. Soon after completing his apprenticeship, Nick moved into the mining sector and the private high voltage industry.
In 2023, Nick started working at SA Power Networks on a short-term contract, then in early 2024 Nick obtained a full-time position in the Substation Maintenance group at SAPN, following in his family’s footsteps.
“Growing up as a kid and having my father and grandfather both worked for ETSA and then SAPN and they inspired me to follow in their footsteps and pursue the same career path. They shared years of knowledge with me and helped me progress in my career, which I am very grateful for.”
The Burt’s journey has brought all 3 family members together working for the one company with a legacy spanning close to 50 years – proud electrical workers all, and union to the end.