Three local trainees start their line mechanic careers with TLC

3 July 2026

Three local people have started their journey towards becoming fully qualified line mechanics with The Lines Company (TLC), joining a long-running trainee programme that helps build skills for TLC and the wider electricity distribution sector.

Mary-Frances Maaka, Lachlan Lyford and Kain Tapara have joined TLC as trainee line mechanics, bringing strong local connections, practical skills and a shared interest in keeping communities connected.

For TLC, the programme is an investment in the future of the business, the reliability of the local network and the capability of the wider sector.

Chief Executive Mike Fox said TLC wants to grow local talent wherever possible.

“We have some specialised roles at TLC and sometimes we need to recruit from outside the area – that is the reality,” Fox said. “But where we can, we want to grow our own local people who know the area, understand our communities and have strong local connections.

“Our trainee programme has been running for many years and remains one of the most important ways we build capability and capacity for the future. The sector needs more skilled people, and this programme helps develop the next generation of line mechanics right here in our own communities.”

Kain is from Ōtorohanga and has a background in building and residential home renovations.

“Everyone I know in this line of work had great things to say about it,” Kain said. “It is a good career path. I like the thought of helping people, being part of the community and fixing things when they break – keeping the lights on.”

Lachlan is from Piopio and was locally schooled. He worked at Rorisons before applying for the role and said he had been looking for a long-term career close to home.

“I was looking for a lifetime career not just a job,” Lachlan said. “I am looking forward to meeting new people, working with new people, learning a new job and getting to grips with a new career.”

Both Kain and Lachlan had showed previous interest in similar roles advertised.

Mary-Frances is from Ōtorohanga and was also schooled locally. Before joining TLC, she worked at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, building her public speaking skills through taking tours.

Her pathway into the industry began after a career conversation with a teacher, which led to her attending Girls with Hi-Vis, a hands-on careers event sponsored by TLC in Te Kūiti last year.

“I didn’t think this line of work was meant for females at all, and I was surprised to find TLC open to it,” Mary-Frances said. “It was eye-opening to see that women are already thriving in this industry.

“Anyone can do this – girl, boy, small, tall, it doesn’t matter. I would say to other young women, go for it. There is no harm in trying, and if you are not successful the first time, you can always reapply.”

Fox said TLC’s support for Girls with Hi-Vis reflected its commitment to encouraging more young people, particularly young women, to consider careers in electricity and infrastructure.

“Events like Girls with Hi-Vis matter because they help young women see, try and talk about the range of opportunities available to them. Mary-Frances’ story shows why those opportunities are so important.”

All three trainees spoke about the importance of working locally and contributing to their communities.

They described line mechanics as a strong career pathway with training, qualifications and opportunities to make a difference.

“You get onsite training, earn while you learn and it is a good career,” Kain said.

Mary-Frances said the qualification pathway and long-term nature of the role appealed to her. “You get a qualification in two and a half years, and it is a job for life,” she said.

Lachlan described the opportunity simply as an “awesome career” with great opportunities.

Fox said TLC was proud to welcome the new trainees and looked forward to supporting their development.

“Being a line mechanic is a great job, but it is also a challenging one,” he said. “We need people who are willing to learn, work hard, be part of a team and take pride in serving their community.