Vocational Student of the Year

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MAS National

The Apprentice Who Refused to Take No for an Answer

When Alice Clarke decided to leave her hospitality job and pursue an electrical apprenticeship, she wasn't simply changing careers. She was choosing a very different future.

At just 20 years old, the Jindabyne local was ready for a new challenge. While hospitality had provided valuable experience, she wanted a career that offered greater variety, opportunities for growth and long-term prospects. Looking back, she has no doubts about the decision she made.

"It's the best decision I've ever made," Alice said. "It's given me more freedom, rather than feeling tied to the chaos and customers at the pub."

Like many people considering a career change, Alice faced uncertainty. However, there was an additional challenge. The electrical industry remains largely male dominated, and stepping into that environment required confidence, determination and a willingness to ignore the opinions of others.

The idea of becoming an electrician had been in the back of her mind for some time, but turning that idea into reality proved easier said than done.

"For example, a lot of people were saying 'good luck with that' or 'I can't believe you're a girl going into that'," Alice said.

Comments like these could easily have discouraged someone from taking the next step. Instead, they strengthened Alice's resolve. The next challenge was finding an employer willing to give her an opportunity and proving she had the skills, attitude and work ethic required to succeed.

Fortunately, the construction industry was not completely unfamiliar to her. Alice already had connections in the sector and her partner worked as a plumber, making the prospect of entering a trade feel achievable. With a clear goal in mind, she set her sights on Porter’s Power & Electrical Solutions, a business she already knew well.

  • Rather than waiting for an opportunity to appear, Alice actively pursued one.

    "I didn't stop nagging them for about a year," she admitted. "I was pretty persistent."

    That persistence eventually paid off. After undertaking work experience with the business, Alice demonstrated a strong work ethic, enthusiasm and a genuine willingness to learn. Those qualities left a lasting impression and ultimately led to the offer of an electrical apprenticeship.

    With support from Mas National, proudly part of the IntoWork Group, Alice was able to formalise her apprenticeship and make the transition into her new career with confidence.

    Today, she works across a wide variety of projects including solar, residential, commercial and automation work. The diversity of the role is one of the aspects she enjoys most, particularly because every day presents a different learning opportunity. Solar has already become a favourite area of work and she has recently commenced further training through NECA.

    The experience has also highlighted just how broad and varied the electrical industry can be.

    "It's exciting," she said. "There's so much to learn. Pretty much every day is different. It's been quite eye-opening to see how much there is to it."

    Perhaps most importantly, Alice's concerns about working in a male-dominated industry have largely disappeared. Rather than encountering barriers on site, she has found encouragement, mentorship and support from the people around her.

    "The amount of support I get from the guys on site has been enormous," Alice said. "There are a few things that need brute strength, and I can't always match the boys. However, I have an eye for detail that they don't, which is definitely an advantage."

    Her experience reflects a broader reality across many industries. Success is not determined by gender, but by attitude, commitment and the willingness to learn. Different people bring different strengths to the workplace, and those differences can be an asset.

    With her apprenticeship well underway, Alice is excited about what lies ahead. She is looking forward to continuing to develop her skills, exploring new areas of the trade and building a long-term career in an industry that continues to challenge and inspire her.

    Her journey serves as a reminder that the most rewarding opportunities often begin with a willingness to back yourself. Despite scepticism from others, Alice chose to pursue a career that interested her and remained persistent until someone gave her the chance to prove herself. In doing so, she opened the door to a future filled with opportunity, growth and purpose.

Learn more

Tyla Lowden

Qualification
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

Training Provider
International Child Care College

Employer
Our Place Play School

Region
Hunter & Central Coast

  • Tyla Lowden’s journey in early childhood education began as a School-based trainee during high school, inspiring a passion for nurturing young minds in safe, supportive environments.

    Recognising the importance of early care, Tyla has continued her studies by completing a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, with a growing interest in developmental and speech delays.

    Balancing work and study, Tyla values the combination of hands-on experience and formal learning, believing both are essential to becoming an effective educator. She is committed to continual professional development and is passionate about improving outcomes for children through strong team collaboration, meaningful partnerships with families and ongoing learning.

    Now progressing to university, Tyla continues to champion vocational education as a valuable pathway into a rewarding career. Her dedication to lifelong learning and giving every child the best possible start reflects her commitment to the future of early childhood education.

Ashley Luscombe

Qualification
Certificate III in Individual Support 

Training Provider
ARC Training

Employer
Rogue Industries

Region
Western Sydney & Blue Mountains

  • Ashley Luscombe completed a Certificate III in Individual Support through ARC Training, earning recognition as Student of the Month for her commitment, professionalism and genuine care for others. Drawing on her own life experiences, Ashley discovered a passion for supporting people living with disability and mental health challenges, believing everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and compassion.

    Her training and hands-on experience have equipped her with strong skills in communication, person-centred care and teamwork, while reinforcing the importance of listening, building trust and empowering others to achieve their goals. Ashley approaches every interaction with empathy, patience and a genuine desire to help people feel valued and supported.

    Known for her willingness to assist both clients and peers, Ashley leads through kindness, generosity and a collaborative approach. She is committed to continuing her career in the care sector, using her lived experience and professional skills to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Kiara Watts

Qualification
Certificate III in Individual Support

Training Provider
Coffs Coast Community College

Employer
Pillars of Care

Region
North Coast & Mid North Coast

  • Kiara Watts completed her Certificate III in Individual Support at Coffs Coast Community College, transforming her passion for helping others into a rewarding career in the care sector. Beginning her journey through Mission Australia’s Transition to Work program, Kiara discovered a learning pathway that built her confidence and inspired her to continue her education through further study.

    Determination and resilience have been central to Kiara’s success, helping her develop the practical skills, empathy and professionalism needed to provide high-quality, person-centred care. Now employed in individual support, Kiara makes a positive difference in the lives of those she supports while continuing to embrace lifelong learning.

    Beyond her career, Kiara has achieved important personal milestones, creating greater independence and stability for herself and making her family proud. Her journey demonstrates how vocational education can provide purpose, opportunity and the confidence to build a meaningful future.