This award is presented to an individual who is undertaking an apprenticeship and has been outstanding in all aspects of their training.
Meet the finalists in the Apprentice of the Year category for the 2025 South Australian Training Awards – what an inspiring group of individuals!
Proudly sponsored by Mas National
Growing up in a mechanically-minded family in regional South Australia sparked Bethany’s interest in cars and mechanical equipment, leading to her studying a Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade.
Working in a male-dominated field, Bethany has emerged from her mechanical fitter apprenticeship as a stronger, more confident person, able to contribute to positive change in workplace dynamics. The challenges she has faced since starting her apprenticeship have made her more resilient and a keen advocate for others experiencing similar challenges; she encourages them to complete their training, and speak out for the good of their mental health and general wellbeing.
As a ground-breaking female apprentice, Bethany is committed to contributing to changing the course of future apprenticeships by telling her story. She hopes sharing her personal and professional experiences will help budding apprentices get into trades in industries made safer through open communication.
Securing a permanent job, Kimberley completed her Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade early. Hosted by Santos in the Cooper Basin, she has gained invaluable hands-on experience and technical skills in the energy sector.
Curious about machinery, Kimberley was drawn to the precision of the mechanical trade, its problem-solving, and teamwork. Along with building thorough technical knowledge and confidence, her apprenticeship included restoring vital equipment to safe operation, contributing to shutdowns, and supporting plant reliability.
Kimberley has also informally mentored new apprentices, shared insights during toolbox talks, and actively contributed to risk assessments. She demonstrates technical ability, resilience, and commitment to high performance. Her supervisors commend her professionalism, strong work ethic, and attention to detail.
A passionate advocate for vocational training and women in trades, Kimberley promotes the benefits of hands-on learning and financial independence. She hopes to inspire others and eventually step into formal mentoring or leadership roles.
Transitioning from office management to hands-on work in the electrical trade, Lucian completed a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
Since 2020 he has gained diverse experience across the domestic, commercial, and construction sectors at airports, schools, hospitals, aged care facilities, domestic settings, government buildings, and large-scale industrial projects, including the Adelaide Festival Tower. He is now particularly interested in learning about renewable energy systems, especially wind power.
During his capstone project, several trainers congratulated him and expressed interest in his future, an encouraging recognition of his efforts overcoming learning and other challenges while training.
Lucian aims to contribute to his community and support Australia’s transition toward sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, he is committed to advocating for apprentices facing challenges like those he encountered. He aspires to be a voice for individuals navigating the complexities of training and employment in the trades, ensuring they receive the support and opportunities they deserve.
While undertaking a Certificate II in Animal Studies, Toshi’s casual kitchenhand job at Maylands Hotel sparked an unexpected passion for the fast pace, teamwork, and creativity of the kitchen. With the Head Chef’s encouragement, Toshi progressed to a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery.
Training in an award-winning venue, Toshi has developed strong skills across every section of the kitchen – grill, fryer, pans, breakfast, desserts – and led function service from prep to plating.
Toshi prides himself on staying calm under pressure, supporting his team, and delivering quality dishes. He has also learnt that work–life balance and self-care are essential for long‑term growth..
Having completed his apprenticeship, Toshi wants to continue developing leadership skills, possibly through a Certificate IV in Kitchen Management. Toshi’s goal is to mentor upcoming apprentice chefs and contribute to positive team culture.
Coming from a family with deep roots in civil construction, Zac has always been drawn to practical, problem-solving work. Over time, plumbing has become a vocation he is proud to pursue with great skill and enthusiasm.
Zac’s journey has been marked by personal growth and professional achievement, including awards for Best Apprentice Over Four Years and Apprentice of the Month, and winning Gold at the WorldSkills state competition. Demonstrating a strong sense of purpose, he also represented future industry leaders at the Today’s Skills, Tomorrow’s Leaders program in Canberra.
Zac believes in leading by example, staying calm under pressure, and constantly learning. He’s excited and proud to be part of an essential trade that keeps communities running.