Carpentry apprentice Christopher Stone-Meadows from Ballarat was named the Master Builders Training Provider Apprentice of the Year for the Ballarat region at the Mercure Hotel and Convention Centre in Ballarat tonight before an audience of over 210. Ballarat Section Chairman, Stuart Allen was in attendance to address guests.
Christopher was one of a trio of apprentices from the Ballarat region to be recognised for their dedication, skill and hard work.
The other winners on the night were Employer-Nominated Apprentice of the Year Alex McClay, a young carpenter from Wendouree, and Chairman's Award winner Jake Cossens, a wall-and-ceiling-lining apprentice from Brown Hill.
Master Builders' Careers Manager Ingrid Mountford said this year's nominees demonstrate laudable commitment, maturity and professional focus on their careers.
"These awards are hard-earned over a long period of time, so the apprentices are rightly excited about the recognition they're receiving, and what it says about the direction of their careers," she said.
Master Builders Chief Executive Officer Rebecca Casson says that skilful apprentices are essential to Victoria's building industry.
"Apprentices are the future of our industry, and central to the vitality and livability of each corner of our state," she said.
"As Victoria grows the fastest of any state in Australia, so grows the demand for the next generation of builders."
"Nurturing careers in building and construction not only helps hardworking people find rewarding careers, but it represents a smart and long-lasting investment in the communities they serve."
"The building and construction sector is the largest full-time employer in the Victorian economy, so this is a great time to launch a career," Ms Casson said. "Opportunities and rewards are plentiful, and there has never been a better time to pursue them."
"Master Builders Victoria takes great pride in these apprentices and in the outstanding, award-winning training we provide to builders throughout their careers."
Training Provider Apprentice of the Year Christopher Stone-Meadows attends Building Skills Centre and is employed by Hardwick Build Co. Employer-Nominated Apprentice of the Year Ballarat Alex McClay attends Building Skills Centre and is employed by Jetsonian Constructions. Chairman's Award winner Jake Cossens attends Building Skills Centre and is employed by Ackroyd Plastering.
Regional winners are selected after an interview with a panel of three judges. They are invited to the State Apprentice of the Year Awards on 9 May in Melbourne where the overall winners will be announced.
