Graduate trainee programs and apprenticeships are more than just stepping stones; they’re designed to give you hands-on experience, structured learning, and exposure to different areas of a business. These roles offer a strong foundation, but turning that foundation into a lasting, purposeful career takes more than simply showing up.
So, how do you stand out, stay motivated, and transition into a permanent position?
After joining CleanCo as a graduate trainee, Kinsey McNamara carved out a path that led to her current role as Station Support Officer, a job that aligns perfectly with her values and passion for sustainability.
Kinsey shares five key steps to success, including how she made the most of every opportunity, embraced challenges, and found a career with real impact. Whether you’re just starting out or considering your next steps, her story offers practical advice and plenty of inspiration.
Step 1: Be part of the company culture.
One of the reasons Kinsey loves working at CleanCo is that everyone wants everyone else to succeed!
As a leader in Queensland’s clean energy future, CleanCo’s core business aim is to create an environment where everyone can thrive, which also applies to the workplace.
“CleanCo Queensland has such a supportive and collaborative culture! Everyone is approachable, willing to share knowledge, and genuinely committed to working together towards common goals. It makes each day enjoyable and rewarding.”
Building strong connections with her colleagues, learning from those around her, and sharing her knowledge has helped Kinsey become a vital team member. The welcoming and supportive culture inspires her to live the company’s four core values: Genuine, Collaborative, Curious, and Courageous.
While there have been many times when she’s recognised CleanCo as a company she can grow in and feel a real part of, one instance in particular stands out:
“Last year, there was a major site outage – seeing everyone come together as a team to successfully onboard over 600 contractors and complete the work safely and efficiently was an incredible experience. The collaboration, shared commitment and problem-solving mindset throughout the process made me feel so proud. It really highlighted the culture here and confirmed this is a place I can continue to grow and thrive.”
Step 2: Stay open to learning new skills.
Learning doesn’t stop when you finish university or at the end of your graduate trainee placement. Kinsey says you need to always look for ways to expand your skill set. At CleanCo, there are plenty of opportunities, both on the job and through their many career development programmes.
“I appreciate the variety in my role – there’s always something new to learn, whether it’s a new process, system or insight into how our operations work. That constant growth keeps the work interesting and helps me continue to develop both personally and professionally.”
From secondments and internships to leadership training, access to educational resources, and membership in professional bodies, CleanCo supports continuous learning for all its employees in many ways.
“I’m really enjoying my current role and feel I’m in a great place to continue building my skills and experience. I’ve had access to great learning and development opportunities that have supported my growth at CleanCo.”
Success for all is embedded at CleanCo: In the past 12 months, an impressive 78% of all promotions at CleanCo went to women.
Compare their company policies and benefits and discover current opportunities.
Step 3: Say ‘yes’ to different experiences.
Kinsey didn’t always know she wanted to work in the energy sector, but staying open to new opportunities has led her to a rewarding and enjoyable career in the industry.
“After school, I wasn’t entirely sure what career path to take. I spent some time working two jobs while figuring things out. During that period, my dad, who had connections with some site personnel, told me about a traineeship opportunity at Swanbank Power Station for a Certificate IV in Business. It sounded like a great way to gain experience and build a foundation, so I applied, and fortunately, I got a place! That opportunity was a turning point for me and marked the beginning of my career journey.”
CleanCo is keen for its employees to build on their expertise and experience in preparation for their next role. They actively encourage career progression and provide the skill-building opportunities needed to advance. This was a crucial step in Kinsey’s transition from graduate to permanent staff.
“A key experience was having the chance to work at one of our northern sites for a few months during my traineeship. That hands-on exposure to a different site environment gave me a broader understanding of our operations. It helped me build the confidence and skills to transition smoothly into my full-time role now.”
Step 4. Seek out support and mentorship where you can.
One way CleanCo supports its employees’ career development is through an active mentorship programme, which Kinsey feels has helped her progress during her five years at the company.
“I’ve been fortunate to participate in the First Five Program, a mentoring initiative that’s provided valuable guidance and support as I’ve developed in my career. These opportunities have made a big difference in helping me feel equipped and supported in my role.”
In line with CleanCo’s company values and culture, Kinsey is keen to pass on her experience to new trainees entering the workplace and hopes to develop her own skills further at the same time.
“One area I’m particularly interested in is the opportunity to mentor a trainee. I think it would be a valuable experience, not only to help someone else grow in their career, but also to develop my own leadership and communication skills.”
Step 5: Remember to take time to recharge!
It’s not all about work, though! Maintaining a good work-life balance is essential, not just for our well-being. Kinsey has discovered that pursuing hobbies and widening her experiences outside work has benefited her career, too.
“Balancing my career with the rest of my life is very important to me, and I make a conscious effort to prioritise activities that recharge and inspire me. I’m passionate about the outdoors and love staying active – these help me stay energised and focused.”
This sense of balance doesn’t just boost her energy levels and nurture creativity, resilience, and focus in the workplace:
“Travelling is another passion, which helps broaden my perspective and fuel my creativity at work. And I enjoy reading as a way to unwind and continuously learn. At the weekend, I always make time to connect with family and friends. These activities not only bring me joy but also help me return to work feeling refreshed and motivated.”
By building habits that support her well-being, Kinsey is also developing the mindset, adaptability, and motivation that drive long-term career success.
What brings this all together? The right company.
Building skills, staying energised, and maintaining perspective are all important, but being in the right environment allows everything to flourish. For Kinsey, that environment is CleanCo.
Although she’s thriving in her current role, Kinsey knows that career growth doesn’t stop once you land a permanent position. What makes the difference is being with a company that recognises your potential, supports your goals, and evolves with you.
“The energy sector is a fast-changing industry, and as our site continues to grow, I’m excited about the potential for new roles and responsibilities that may come up. CleanCo offers great long-term opportunities, and I’m looking forward to seeing where my career can progress within the company!”
With the right support, values, and vision behind you, your first job doesn’t just launch your career—it helps you shape a meaningful one.
