Blog
Jules works as a High-Voltage Technician at Elia
Elia has one of the most stable and reliable high-voltage grids in Europe. This is no accident, because thanks to the daily efforts of high-voltage technicians, the grid and transformers in every region of Belgium remain in top condition. High-Voltage Technician Jules is happy to roll up his sleeves and get to work.
Boots on the ground
Jules is a practical man who enjoys having his ‘boots on the ground’: “I love being on the job every day doing electrical and mechanical maintenance of high-voltage equipment on our grid. Looking for causes of possible defects and coming up with solutions is always another fun challenge. Taking measurements and conducting inspections for commissioning new equipment also falls within my remit as a High-Voltage Technician. And the icing on the cake: for safety reasons, I always work alongside a colleague when out and about, so there is always someone to chat to on my way to new assignments.”
Fantastic learning opportunity
“That focus on the hands-on aspect was already evident during my vocational secondary studies in electrical installations. During my seventh year of studies in industrial electricity, I had the chance to do an internship at Elia. After completing this internship in mid-2021, I was immediately able to start working as a high-voltage technician. Straight away I felt that this job was right up my street, as I had the opportunity to put my theoretical knowledge into practice. So far, this has been a fantastic learning experience, and I am sure I will continue to learn a lot in the years to come.”
A passion for safety and technology
“To be a good high-voltage technician, you must have a good basic knowledge of electricity combined with the necessary technical understanding.
As such, the ability to properly analyse and apply wiring diagrams is essential. Our passion for technology and safety drives my colleagues and me to give our best every day when checking, maintaining and repairing high-voltage equipment. Teamwork is also vital. Working with colleagues and customers requires the necessary communication skills so that we can always do our job in safe conditions.”
Focus on lifelong learning
“Continuous learning is crucial to being able to competently carry out the electrical and mechanical maintenance of high-voltage equipment on the grid. I want to keep updating my existing technical knowledge. Within Elia, I have plenty of opportunities to attend the necessary training courses during office hours. I am expected to visit the training centre in Schaerbeek regularly to attend in-person seminars, though a wide range of training webinars is also available.”
Top employer
“For me, Elia is a real top employer. After all, no other company in the sector gives you the chance to be a high-voltage technician. Moreover, Elia fosters a pleasant working environment, where management strives to actively devise solutions when changes are needed in the workplace. Add to that colleagues and managers who are always available for supportive feedback, and you can understand why I want to stick with this leading player in the energy sector for a long time to come!”
