We are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of this year’s trainees and apprentices, whose dedication, perseverance, and passion showcase their personal journey and success.

The calibre of nominations received this year has been truly exceptional. Each nominee has demonstrated a strong commitment to learning, personal growth, and excellence in their chosen field. Their contributions in the workplace highlight not only technical skill, but also initiative, resilience, and a willingness to go above and beyond.

Every nominee should be commended for their hard work and the positive impact they have made within their organisations.

We extend our sincere thanks to our partnering host employers and our mentors, who play a vital role in supporting and guiding these individuals. Your continued investment in training and development is crucial in building a capable and confident workforce for our future.

We would also like the recognise and give our thanks to our major sponsor MEGT, Apprentice Connect Australia Provider and our valued RTO Partner, Australian College of Commerce and Management who have supported our awards and celebrate our nominee’s success.

We congratulate all winners and nominees and look forward to following your ongoing achievements.

2026 winners

Apprentice of the Year – Mark S, Certificate III Electrotechnology Electrician

Throughout Mark’s apprenticeship, he has shown an exceptional commitment to developing both his personal and professional development in the trade. Over the past four years, he has built a solid foundation of technical knowledge and grown into a capable and confident electrician.

He has applied what he’s learned in the workplace with maturity and initiative, contributing positively to his team and consistently producing quality work. Completing his apprenticeship was a goal of his and is a significant achievement that reflects his dedication and determination.

He highlights that while also learning the technical aspects of the trade, he also developed strong communication skills, working effectively with both his team and customers. His ability to build rapport and maintain positive relationships has helped establish him as a trusted and professional member of the workplace.

It’s these transferrable skills that cannot be taught in the classroom and only an apprenticeship can provide.

Congratulations on achieving your completion goal Mark, we look forward to hearing about the achievements that lay ahead.

Trainee of the Year – Alyssa B, Certificate III Business

Runner up – Olivia B, Certificate III Business  

Alyssa took a bold leap in her career, moving away from her qualified role in aged and disability care to enter the world of business. Motivated by her desire to gain new skills and embrace new challenges, she stepped into an environment that was completely unfamiliar to her.

Throughout her traineeship, Alyssa’s greatest achievement has been the remarkable growth in her confidence, independence, and ability to contribute meaningfully within an administrative setting.     

She has embraced every opportunity, contributed to special projects, and demonstrated initiative and commitment in everything she does.

She is incredibly proud of how far she has come, as so are we.  We have thoroughly enjoyed watching her confidence and capabilities flourish both personally and professionally.

Trainee of the Year, Medical – Rachel H, Certificate III Business (Medical Administration)

Rachel is an exceptional individual whose dedication to growth and learning has been evident throughout her traineeship. She is supported by a strong team environment and embraced every opportunity to develop her skills, completing her qualification an impressive three months ahead of schedule.

Rachel took every opportunity to gain valuable insights which has strengthened her ability to support patients with a holistic approach.

She has demonstrated remarkable growth in confidence, excelling in challenging assessments and consistently delivering high-quality service, reflected in both internal recognition and positive patient feedback.

Her commitment to continuous improvement make her a true asset to her team and a deserving recipient of this award.

Women in Trades – Lily A, Certificate III Parks and Gardens

Lily’s dedication and passion for her work have made her truly stand out. Throughout her apprenticeship, she embraced a variety of projects. Contributing to planting and mulching, she took pride in transforming spaces and creating a respectful, welcoming environment.

Lily has also demonstrated a strong commitment to learning and teamwork, embracing both her TAFE studies and workplace training opportunities. Respected by her peers and confident in her abilities, she has proven herself in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Her growth, determination, and professionalism make her a highly deserving recipient of the Women in Trade award.

First Nations Trainee of the Year – Emma Y, Certificate III Business

We are proud to introduce Emma, this year’s First Nations Trainee of the Year. Emma began her journey in a new and unfamiliar environment and has developed into a valued team member. Confidently managing her responsibilities, she has demonstrated outstanding growth, confidence, and capability while balancing her traineeship alongside Year 12.

Through her traineeship, she has built strong customer service and communication skills, supporting customers and helping them feel comfortable using digital banking services. Her ability to work independently, maintain professionalism in busy periods, and support her team has made a meaningful contribution to the branch.

As a proud First Nations trainee, she has shown exceptional commitment, initiative, and resilience.

By consistently meeting expectations at both school and work, volunteering for additional shifts, and actively seeking new learning opportunities, she has grown into a confident and reliable professional. Her achievements not only reflect her dedication and work ethic but also her role as an inspiring representative of young First Nations women in business.

Adult Apprentice of the Year – Anthony N, Certificate III Security Equipment

Runner-Up, Nathan K, Certificate III Instrumentation & Control

Anthony’s dedication, resilience, and drive to succeed throughout his apprenticeship has presented opportunities to further his experience and exposure. Contributing to the large-scale construction development, he has played a role in delivering multiple major projects simultaneously, demonstrating adaptability and a strong commitment to excellence.

Making the transition from a qualified chef to an adult apprentice, he embraced the challenges of starting a new career with determination and a clear vision for his future.

Anthony quickly adapted to the fast-paced construction environment, taking on considerable responsibilities including security fit-off, commissioning, and project handovers, all while maintaining high standards and delivering results on time.

His strong organisational skills, and eagerness to learn have set him apart, alongside excelling in his TAFE studies and a commitment to continuous development. He is not only building a successful new career but also setting an example for others considering a fresh start. We look forward to seeing Anthony complete his apprenticeship and set his next challenge.

Rising Star of the Year – Alexander G, Certificate III Air conditioning/Refrigeration

Runner-up Tyron L, Certificate III Air conditioning/ Refrigeration

We are thrilled to announce Alexander our winner of the Rising Star of the Year award for 2026!

Alexander has demonstrated exceptional growth and dedication throughout his apprenticeship. He has developed strong technical skills in mechanical and refrigeration systems, confidently working under broad supervision while always prioritising safety and quality. Alexander’s ability to plan, prepare, and complete tasks efficiently has made him a valuable team member on high-profile projects.

Alexander’s advice to anyone interested in starting an apprenticeship is to

“be open to learning, be willing to listen and observe and learn from the people around you.”

His communication skills, adaptability, and leadership in reporting hazards and finding practical solutions have earned him recognition.

Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition as a rising star in your field!

Safe Work Practices – Cyra M, Certificate III Business

Congratulations Cyra, our Safe Work Practices award winner, whose commitment to safety, professionalism, and personal growth has made a strong impact throughout her traineeship. A key milestone in her journey has been her promotion to reception, where she has taken on greater responsibility while building confidence, communication, and organisational skills in a busy workplace environment.

Throughout her traineeship, she has demonstrated a clear dedication to maintaining a safe and positive workplace. As one of the office’s first aid officers, she has developed strong safety awareness, consistently following procedures, using equipment correctly, and reporting hazards when needed.

Her proactive approach helps foster a culture where safety is prioritised and supported by all team members.

Her dedication to promoting a safe workplace, particularly through her responsibilities as a first aid officer, combined with her willingness to learn and take on new challenges, makes her a deserving recipient of this award and a positive role model for others.

School-based Trainee of the Year – Tylira H, Certificate III Business

Tylira is a young individual whose growth, determination, and positive attitude have made her a standout in her role. Since beginning her school-based traineeship, she has shown remarkable progress, built confidence and independence while developing the ability to complete tasks on her own and take on increasing responsibility in the workplace.

Tylira has commented that participating in the traineeship has improved her school attendance, her social skills and confidence.

Going above and beyond expectations, she has taken on additional responsibilities, supported her team, and represented her community with pride.

Her growth in confidence, skills, and mindset is a testament to her dedication and the impact of this opportunity.

Congratulations Tylira, our School-based Trainee of the Year, a deserving winner with a bright future ahead.

Thanks to everyone who nominated for this year’s awards.

Read about previous year’s, the awards criteria or categories on the 1300apprentice Awards page.

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