An electrician has been named as Central Queensland’s top apprentice of the year after turning his study into a dual qualification to forge a career in a highly competitive field.
Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman said Richard O’Brien from Gladstone took home the title of Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year as one of the 11 winners at the regional final of the 58th Queensland Training Awards.
“Richard is a dual-qualified tradesman (Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician and
Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control) with an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering, and has committed himself to achieving a high level of qualification to ensure he has a long and successful career at Rio Tinto,” Ms Fentiman said.
“Richard will now join the winners from six other regional Queensland Training Awards finals to become state finalists at the Queensland Training Awards State Gala Dinner on 14 September.
Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga congratulated the winners from tonight’s awards.
“All of our high calibre regional winners represent a wide range of industries and occupations, from mechanics, electricians, bakeries and hairdressing salons, to migrant support organisations and big businesses,” Mrs Lauga said,
“I congratulate all of them for winning their categories in the regional final, and for their dedication to training.
“Being selected as a regional winner recognises their outstanding contribution to the state’s growth and economy and they should be proud of their achievements so far.
“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to supporting training and skills development for all Queenslanders.”
The Queensland Training Awards focuses the spotlight on the excellence that exists in the state’s training sector and supports the Queensland Government’s commitment to fostering skilled workforces.
The 11 regional award categories are Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year; Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year; Vocational Student of the Year; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year; School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year; VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year; Equity VET Student of the Year; Community Training Initiative of the Year; and Small, Medium and Large Employer of the Year.
The Queensland Training Awards State Gala Dinner will be held in Brisbane on 14 September. The awards are run by the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, with the support of regional and state sponsors.
Images are available of Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year, Richard O’Brienhere:
