Apprentice of the Year
Supported by
MEGT
MEGT is an Australian not-for-profit organisation which has been supporting employers, apprentices, and trainees since 1982.
We’re here to help future apprentices and trainees find the career pathway that’s right for them.
Our free services include:
Sign-up and registration of apprentices and trainees
Assistance with Government financial incentives that may be available
Accurate and efficient processing of Training Contracts and incentive claim forms
Access to our free online job board and employer/job seeker toolkits
Easy online access to apprentice and trainee records
Ongoing mentoring and support for employers, apprentices, and trainees
Our dedicated presence in every state is supported by national administration teams which continuously exceed Government quality and compliance benchmarks. We place the right people in the right jobs to fill skills gaps and future-proof Australian workforces.
Justin Curley
Qualification
Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
Trained by
Central Coast Community College
Employed by
HVTC Hunter
Hosted by
Origin Energy Eraring Pty Ltd
Region
Hunter & Central Coast Region
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One trade just wasn’t enough for Justin Curley. After completing his Mechanical Fitting apprenticeship, he worked for three years in the mining industry, where he was inspired to pursue a Certificate III in Electrotechnology.
While he was loving his qualification there was one adjustment that posed a temporary challenge. “I went from full-time tradesman wages to apprentice wages again, but I always had the big picture in mind,” says Justin. “Sure, it might be hard short-term, but the skills and experience I got from my VET pathway benefited me significantly in the long run.”
Justin didn’t wait long to see the results of his hard work. “I was able to complete my electrical apprenticeship early through competency-based completion and pursue employment, now as a dual-qualified tradesman,” he says.
It’s little wonder that Justin easily secured employment in his chosen field. “I’m very passionate about recommending apprenticeships to both young and mature-aged adults like me,” says Justin.
Thomas Eyre
Qualification
Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade
Trained by
TAFE NSW
Employed by
Apprenticeship Careers Australia
Hosted by
Morgan Cement International Pty Ltd
Region
Illawarra & South East NSW Region
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Thomas Eyre is a man with a plan. Since the age of 15, he’s pulled out all the stops to achieve his goals, meaning that he was fully qualified at just 19.
After finishing year 10, Thomas moved to Wollongong from Queensland to start his Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade.
Thomas quickly found his groove, but, ever the high achiever, he couldn’t get enough. “I felt as if I could be doing more, so I enrolled into a Diploma of Engineering,” he says. “The combination of these two courses really boosted me in terms of learning and understanding.”
This was no walk in the park. Alongside his apprenticeship and diploma, Thomas was working a 40-hour work week, doing two night courses, a lot of study and working an additional two jobs to pay board.
Now, he’s eyeing his next steps. “I plan on using these experiences to eventually complete my degree as an Engineer.”
Caitlyn Knox
Qualification
Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology
Trained by
TAFE NSW
Employed by
Komatsu Australia Pty Ltd
Region
Southern & South Western Sydney Region
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Becoming a Plant Mechanic wasn’t Caitlyn Knox’s original plan, but her desire for a challenge and the chance to build her career was too great to pass up. After being accepted into an apprenticeship program, she kicked off her Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology.
Despite having to move 600 kms away to Sydney and dealing with challenges presented by Covid, Caitlyn immersed herself in her qualification and gained respect from her colleagues. “Caitlyn consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, skill, and knowledge throughout her apprenticeship,” says Matt Buttigieg, Caitlyn’s Technical Capabilities Manager.
Now, she’s taking on formal leadership positions thanks to the self-belief she’s gained through her qualification. “I’ve been nominated as a Health and Safety Representative in the workshop,” says Caitlyn.
Committed to continuing her education and mastering her craft, Caitlyn is just starting out. “I’m so grateful for the opportunities and personal growth this apprenticeship has provided me with and look forward to what’s ahead.”
Caroline Morris
Qualification
Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade
Trained by
TAFE NSW
Employed by
Newcrest Mining Ltd
Region
Western NSW Region
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As the first woman to complete a Fitter Machinist apprenticeship at her workplace in over 20 years, Caroline Morris is making waves. Now, she’s inspiring other young women to pursue trades.
Kicking off her Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade in 2019, Caroline loved the dynamic setting. “I worked on a variety of equipment: mill machinery, pumps and crushers – we need to be across it all,” she says.
Though she was excelling, Caroline experienced some barriers. “Being one of a few female apprentices is challenging,” she says. “I've encountered old-fashioned attitudes from some people. However, I don't pay much attention. I'm here to do my job like anyone else and I take pride in achieving my best.”
Now fully qualified, Caroline is making her voice heard in the hope of encouraging others. “I want to show young people, especially young girls, that there are great opportunities available for them in trades. Being trade-qualified opens doors for everyone.”
Matthew Nott
Qualification
Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
Trained by
TAFE NSW
Employed by
HVTC North West
Hosted by
Whitehaven Coal
Region
New England Region
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Matthew Nott has always wanted to work in the electrotechnology industry – a spark that only grew brighter as he progressed with his apprenticeship.
On day one of his Certificate III in Electrotechnology, his expectations were exceeded. “This course sparked my curiosity in understanding how electrical installations work and to dig deeper and challenge myself,” says Matthew. “I love the problem-solving aspect of the work.”
Not only was he fascinated with the course content, but he felt particularly inspired by his trainers. “The teachers went out of their way to help the class learn all the required knowledge to work in the industry,” he says.
With his broad breadth of new skills, Matthew was charging ahead, completing his apprenticeship early. And his passion for learning shows no signs of abating as he progresses with an associate degree in Engineering majoring in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at university. “I look forward to seeing where this industry takes me.”
Raychel White
Qualification
Certificate III in Nursery Operations
Trained by
TAFE NSW
Employed by
Penrith City Council
Region
Western Sydney & Blue Mountains Region
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Raychel White inherited her green thumb but, thanks to a Certificate III in Nursery Operations, she’s carved out a career that’s entirely her own.
Starting her qualification, Raychel connected with content she craved. “As somebody with a lifelong love for plants, this course incorporated all of my favourite activities in horticulture,” says Raychel.
But it was also the delivery that resonated with her. “As a kinaesthetic learner, combining work and study was imperative,” says Raychel. “Embracing my learning style and pursuing an apprenticeship allowed me to gain valuable skills whilst retaining detailed horticultural knowledge.”
Triumphing on many levels, including early completion of her qualification, Raychel is dedicated to ensuring her wins are felt throughout Horticulture. “I’m sincerely invested in encouraging more women to enter the industry.”
Locked into her dream career, Raychel feels at home. “I truly believe I wouldn’t find fulfilment in any other industry, and I feel blessed to have found my niche so young.”