A 27-year-old electrician who was homeless at 15 and is now preparing to buy her first home has been named NSW's Apprentice of the Year.
Sydney-based Kathryn Beale, who was a mature-aged apprentice, received the top individual award at the NSW Training Awards, with Wagga Wagga Council employee Imogen Young-Maloney named Trainee of the Year.
The annual awards celebrate excellence across vocational education and training, recognising outstanding students, trainers, providers and employers. In 2025, regional NSW shone brightly, with most awards going to individuals living and working outside metro Sydney.
Ms Beale was recognised for her technical expertise and commitment to excellence in her electrical apprenticeship with NECA Group Training, hosted by Star Electrical. Now a qualified electrician working on major construction and infrastructure projects, she is also mentoring colleagues, promoting diversity and inspiring the next generation of tradespeople.
Ms Young-Maloney was honoured for her resilience and proactive approach to overcoming work challenges as a trainee business support officer at Wagga Wagga City Council. She champions vocational education as a pathway for students still exploring their careers, frequently promoting opportunities and fairs and expos.
Presented by Training Services NSW and in its 70th year, the NSW Training Awards highlight the vital role of vocational education in building skilled workforces and stronger communities.
Award winners will now represent NSW at the Australian Training Awards in Darwin on 5 December.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:
"I congratulate all the winners and finalists at the 2025 NSW Training Awards whose achievements are a powerful reminder of how vocational education and training uplifts futures and strengthens our communities, industries and economy.
"Our future prosperity is dependent on growing our skilled workforce, and role models like our Training Awards winners are essential in breaking down stereotyped about VET careers.
As our winners head to Darwin for the Australian Training Awards in December, I know they'll fly the NSW flag with pride. They're the best of the best, and I'm confident they'll inspire the nation, just as they've inspired us here at home."
Apprentice of the Year, Kathryn Beale, said:
"The decision to pursue an electrical apprenticeship was driven by my desire to develop a skill set that would allow me to take on more responsibility, gain hands-on experience, and achieve long-term stability in the industry.
"Despite the challenges of being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, I have gained confidence and resilience, which have further reinforced my commitment to this trade and my personal growth.
"This training pathway has truly been a transformative journey for me. I was homeless at 15 and now am almost ready to buy my own home."
Trainee of the Year, Imogen Young-Maloney, said:
"Education and careers are not 'one size fits all'. There are so many different paths you can take, and it's never too late to change direction. I want people to see what vocational education can offer and to know that the same opportunities are out there for them too.
"Vocational training gave me the chance to explore a pathway I might not have considered otherwise, and it's been one of the best decisions I've made. I'd encourage others to stay open to opportunities, try new things, and not feel pressured to have all the answers right away."
The full list of winners can be found below:
Individual
| Category | Winner | Qualification | Employer | Region | Suburb |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year | James Barry | Certificate III in Guiding | Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley | Hunter & Central Coast | Cessnock |
| Apprentice of the Year | Kathryn Beale | Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician | NECA Electrical Apprenticeships | Southern & South-west Sydney | Middleton Grange |
| School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year | Amali Rollinson | Certificate III in Hairdressing | Blush Hair and Beauty Bar Bathurst | Western NSW | The Lagoon |
| Trainee of the Year | Imogen Young-Maloney | Certificate III in Business | Wagga Wagga City Council | Riverina | Kooringal |
| VET in Schools Student of the Year | Darby Hubber | Certificate II in Agriculture | Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst | Western NSW | Cowra |
| VET Trainer/Teacher of the Year | Penelope Mackay | Business & Hospitality | Catholic Education Diocese of Wagga Wagga | Riverina | Turvey Par |
| Vocational Student of the Year | Rebecca Hambrook | Certificate IV in Community Services | Weigelli Centre Aboriginal Corporation | Western NSW | Cowra |
Organisation
| Category | Winner |
| Industry Collaboration | Casino Food Company Ltd and TAFE NSW Collaboration title: Skills for the Future: TAFE NSW & The Casino Food Company Partnership |
| Small Employer of the Year | Muswellbrook Preschool Kindergarten Inc. |
| Large Employer of the Year | Australian Rail Track Corporation |
| Small Training Provider of the Year | CWBTS (City-wide Building & Training Services) |
| Large Training Provider of the Year | TAFE NSW |
