Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week: Meet Ben, a BAI Broadcast Technician Apprentice.
National Apprenticeship Week is a time to recognise the value of hands-on learning and career development. At BAI Communications, our apprenticeship program is designed to equip aspiring broadcast technicians with the skills, experience, and mentorship they need to succeed in this dynamic industry. From technical training to real-world fieldwork, our apprentices gain invaluable experience while playing a vital role in keeping Australia’s broadcasting infrastructure operating reliably.
To showcase the impact of our program, we caught up with Ben McLeod, a second-year Broadcast Technician Apprentice based in Townsville. He shares his journey—from what inspired him to apply to the exciting projects he’s worked on and the invaluable skills he’s gained along the way.
Getting to know you
What inspired you to pursue a career in broadcasting?
I’ve always had a strong interest in technology and, since high school, was considering a career in an electrical trade. While searching for apprenticeships online, I came across the Broadcast Technician Apprentice Program, and it immediately stood out. It was unlike any other apprenticeships I had been considering—offering a mix of technical and electronics work in a unique industry. The opportunity to travel also caught my attention, and over the past year, I’ve had the chance to visit some incredible places as part of my role.
How did you hear about this apprenticeship, and what made you apply?
I found the apprenticeship listing online and was immediately drawn to the combination of hands-on electronics work, problem-solving, and fieldwork. It seemed like an exciting, challenging career where I could continuously learn and develop new skills.
The apprenticeship experience
What does a typical day in your apprenticeship look like?
There’s no such thing as a “typical” day! The role is constantly changing, which keeps things interesting. Some days, I’m in the office repairing equipment from sites. Other days, I’m out in the field, traveling to different locations to manage faults on-site.
One of my favourite parts of the job is the annual maintenance runs. These take me to small towns and remote locations, where we test, service, and fine-tune broadcasting equipment to ensure everything is running reliably. It’s a great way to see different parts of the country while gaining real-world experience.
What’s the most valuable skill you’ve learned so far?
Problem-solving has been the most valuable skill I’ve developed. The ability to analyse issues, think critically, and troubleshoot effectively has been invaluable—not just in my work but in everyday life.
Learning how to work with electronics has also given me a deeper understanding of how everyday devices function. It’s empowering to know I can diagnose and repair technical issues both at work and at home.
How does the apprenticeship balance technical training with real-world experience?
The balance is excellent. Like all apprentices, I attend TAFE in Brisbane for multiple four-week blocks throughout the year. This is where I learn the theory behind electronics and communications, which is essential for understanding the work we do in the field.
In addition to TAFE, BAI provides in-house technical training, which is specifically tailored to our role in broadcasting. This helps bridge the gap between general electronics training and the specialised knowledge required for our industry.
Beyond that, the hands-on experience I get from repairing equipment, troubleshooting faults on-site, and using test equipment during maintenance runs ensures I’m constantly applying what I’ve learned in a real-world setting.
Have you worked on any exciting projects during your apprenticeship so far?
Traveling for work has been one of the highlights of my apprenticeship. I’ve been on multiple maintenance runs across Queensland, stopping in different towns and remote areas.
Two trips that stand out were a week-long job in Airlie Beach and a two-week trip to Mount Isa, where we covered over 2,000 km. We stopped at small towns like Julia Creek, Cloncurry, and Camooweal—which is only 13 km from the Northern Territory border. That trip was particularly special because I got to catch up with my brother, who had recently moved to Mount Isa.
Challenges and growth
Challenges and growthWhat’s been the most exciting or challenging project you’ve worked on?
In December last year, we faced a major fault at a site. One of the two main transmitters failed overnight, and over the next two weeks, my team worked tirelessly alongside BAI’s AM specialist, Steve Main, to diagnose and fix the issue.
What unexpected skills have you developed?
Beyond broadcasting and electronics, I’ve developed some unexpected technical skills. Our Townsville office recently acquired a 3D printer, which has allowed me to learn CAD software and the complexities of 3D printing. I’ve also gained mechanical skills from dismantling old equipment racks, working on generators, and maintaining dehydrators. These are things I never expected to learn in this role, but they’ve been incredibly valuable.
How has this apprenticeship helped you build confidence?
The hands-on experience I’ve gained and the support from my team have helped me build a lot of confidence. Whether it’s tackling technical issues, problem-solving on-site, or communicating with colleagues, I feel much more capable now than when I started.
What kind of support have you received from mentors and colleagues?
The support has been incredible. Early in my apprenticeship, I went through a difficult time, and my team—both in Townsville and across BAI—stood by me. Their guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in helping me develop the skills I need to succeed.
Career impact and future goals
Career impact and future goalsHow do you see this apprenticeship shaping your long-term career?
I see this apprenticeship as the foundation of a long and successful career in broadcasting. BAI has provided me with the tools, training, and support I need to succeed, and I’m excited about the opportunities ahead. Once I’m qualified, I hope to continue growing as a technician and exploring new roles within the company.
Have you discovered any specific areas in broadcasting that interest you most?
RF (Radio Frequency) technology is one of the most fascinating areas for me. The way different frequencies interact with weather conditions, antenna types, and other variables is incredibly complex. I’m excited to continue learning about RF throughout my apprenticeship.
Would you recommend this apprenticeship to others?
Absolutely! It’s a unique opportunity to work with technology you won’t find in any other job. Every day is different, and there are plenty of opportunities to travel, learn, and grow. Plus, the support within BAI—both from mentors and colleagues—makes it an excellent place to start a career.
Personal reflections and advice
Personal reflections and adviceWhat’s been the most rewarding part of your apprenticeship so far?
Seeing my growth over the past year has been the most rewarding part. Looking back, I can see how much I’ve learned and how my skills have improved. I’m now able to complete tasks that would have been daunting at the start of my apprenticeship, and that sense of progress is really satisfying.
What advice would you give to someone considering a broadcast apprenticeship?
Go for it! Be open-minded, ready to learn, and patient—some topics take time to grasp, but with the right support, you’ll get there. The experience, knowledge, and opportunities you gain in this apprenticeship are worth it.
