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HIA Apprentice Awards

Australia’s apprentices are the future of trades in this country. HIA is helping those apprentices keep that future bright with an awards program that celebrates the achievements of young tradespeople while encouraging continued excellence in the industry.

The HIA Apprentice Awards recognise outstanding trade knowledge, quality building work, strong presentation and solid trade-school results. The awards are open to all apprentices of HIA members, and they can be nominated by their host, by HIA Apprentices or they can nominate themselves.

The HIA Apprentice Awards are a great opportunity for young, motivated apprentices to gain further recognition in the industry. Not only are the awards a fantastic networking opportunity, but winners and finalists will gain a strong reputation as they continue to transition into the workforce.

What Tradies Want magazine tracked down a few candidates and asked them a bit about themselves.

Dougie Newham 20, Plumber

Dougie spends his free time playing rugby league and touch footy, and blasting around on a Jet Ski.

Why were you nominated for Apprentice Of The Year?

“I was nominated because of my ability to learn and my work ethic.”

Where do you hope to be in five years time?

“In five years time I hope to own my own plumbing company.”

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned on the job?

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned while working in the trade is to take your time and do things right the first time.”

Daniel Ridley 22, Carpenter

Daniel loves woodworking, even in his spare time, but also loves sport, and is a volleyball A-grader.

Why were you nominated for Apprentice Of The Year?

“I believe I was nominated by my employer because I showed him I was a hard-working individual who always gave my best and put forward work that wasn’t only acceptable to him, but also to our clients.

“He always pushed me to do better and always challenged me in everything I did. This has made me who I am today!”

Where do you hope to be in five years time?

“I have just moved to Ceduna, in South Australia, to be with my soon-to-be wife. My goal for the coming years is to establish myself there and potentially start my own business. I’m excited to see what different types of work Ceduna will throw at me. It should be a bit different to that of Adelaide and a big city!”

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned on the job?

“I guess the biggest thing I’ve learned would be that there is always a fine line between doing things to make a profit and doing things the best you can. Learning how to be efficient, but still produce the quality work my boss expected of me, was the biggest lesson to learn.”

Jack Dunn 21, Carpenter

Jack likes fitness and working out, gaming, drone photography and listening to music.

Why were you nominated for Apprentice Of The Year?

“My apprentice manager and my employer thought that, based on my skill and commitment to the trade,

I was deserving of the award.”

Where do you hope to be in five years time?

“I hope to be a builder or supervisor and be able to run jobs and organise trades and apprentices. Owning my own business is definitely a dream I want to make reality also.”

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned on the job?

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned on site has been to treat the clients with respect and care. Taking the time to keep everything clean, usable and safe is key to keeping continuous work with clients and a good word of mouth for new people.”

Tom Payton 23, Carpenter

Tom lists his hobbies as: soccer, riding motorbikes, surfing, fishing, 4WDing and trekking/hiking/camping.

Why were you nominated for Apprentice Of The Year?

“My host employer nominated me because of my commitment to his carpentry team. While I’m definitely not the fastest learner or the best at maths, I’m very hardworking and passionate about learning and completing a job to the best of my ability.”

Where do you hope to be in five years time?

“I’ve recently finished my Certificate 3 in carpentry at TAFE and will be undertaking the builder’s course this year. Once I’m qualified and I feel competent enough I would like to work overseas for a while. I’ve met other Aussie carpenters working in Nepal for nonprofit organisations. They’re helping rebuild in disaster-stricken areas, and I think it would be an amazing experience doing that sort of work for a while.

“Eventually I would like to start my own company in Australia and be able to give back to the building industry and give future apprentices the same opportunities I’ve been given.”

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned on the job?

“The building game is definitely an industry where hard work pays and commitment and quality craftsmanship will make you stand out from the crowd. It’s something I admire from my employer, and seeing how quickly he is progressing in the industry really motivates me and the rest of his team.”

Joseph Waters 27, Carpenter

Skateboarding, surfing, snowboarding, golf and soccer keep Joe busy when he’s not at work.

Why were you nominated for Apprentice of The Year?

“My boss nominated me for my positive attitude, dedication to the trade, skill level and ability to communicate well with both trades and clients.”

Where do you hope to be in five years’ time?

In five years’, time I hope to have obtained my builder’s license, be in the process of setting up my own carpentry company and mentoring apprentices.”

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned on the job?

“Communication and collaboration is key.”

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