 Price later obtained certificates in marine engineering technology and structural engineering from Newcastle Technical College before gaining a second class certificate of engineering competency (steam) from the Commonwealth Department of Shipping and Transport.Price began a fitter and machinist apprenticeship with the State Dockyard in 1956 before spending many years as a draughtsman, marine engineer and manager in the shipbuilding industry.Price was first elected as an Alderman of the Newcastle City Council in 1977 to 1984.