Two local youngsters have taken out awards at the NSW Western Sydney and Blue Mountains Training Awards.
Isabella Bruce from Mulgoa won Trainee of the Year, while Xavier Shepherd from Emu Plains won School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year.
The event at Western Sydney Conference Centre celebrated the achievements of all category winners including apprentices, trainees, students, businesses, and trainers that champion vocational education.
An early interest in playing video games and assembling computers led Trainee of the Year, Isabella, to complete her Certificate III in Information Technology. She is celebrated for role in IT training, collaboration to resolve persistent issues and project management.
Isabella’s proactivity in suggesting and implementing improvements to optimise operations and continuous pursuit of learning and development also saw her take out the Top Performing Trainee Scholarship from MIGAS and the CEO award for role at her host employer, Jaybro.
“Growing up, my fascination with technology and computers led me to be the go-to person for troubleshooting at family gatherings. Choosing a traineeship felt like a natural progression given my passion for technology,” she said.
“The traineeship allowed me to learn on the job while also studying online. This combination allowed me to practically apply new skills and knowledge in real-time situations at work.”
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, congratulated all of the winners.
“We know that many jobs created in the next decade will require vocational qualifications. These awards celebrate the young workers, trainers and businesses working to ensure we meet this challenge,” he said.
“Congratulations to Xavier and Isabella for their remarkable achievements. Their stories exemplify the transformative power of VET and the opportunities it creates for individuals to thrive and make a significant impact in their communities.”
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