- Thirty-two individuals recognised, including 21 regional students and lecturers
- Eleven organisations set to compete in five categories
- Individual winners will become ambassadors for WA's vocational training sector
- Winners will be announced at a presentation ceremony in September 2025
Skills and TAFE Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson has today announced the 43 finalists vying for the 2025 WA Training Awards.
The WA Training Awards recognise and celebrate excellence in the State's vocational training sector.
This year's awards recognise 32 individual finalists - including 21 regional students, trainees, apprentices and lecturers - across eight award categories.
Seventeen of the 21 regional finalists completed their training at Central Regional TAFE (9), North Regional TAFE (6) and South Regional TAFE (2), demonstrating the valuable role regional WA TAFEs play in enabling Western Australians to access vocational training opportunities in their local community.
Two out of four of the International Student of the Year finalists, trained by Central Regional TAFE and employed by Goldfields Child Care Centre, are bolstering the quality and capacity of essential childcare services in Kalgoorlie.
In addition to the individual award categories, 11 organisations will compete across five categories, including the WA Industry Collaboration Award and the WA Small and Large Training Provider of the Year Awards.
This year has been another record year for submissions, with applications from individuals training in, or teaching, beauty therapy; building and construction; business; creative industries; the defence industry; early childhood education and care; electrical; engineering; health and community services and hospitality.
Winners will be announced in September 2025, with individual recipients also taking home a $3,000 cash prize.
Individual award recipients will become ambassadors for WA's vocational training sector, where they will have the opportunity to take part in promotional activities and speaking engagements to inspire others to take up vocational training pathways.
Last year's WA Apprentice of the Year, Ellie Wotherspoon, has featured in a variety of media to promote vocational pathways to young women, by sharing her story of becoming an electrician.
The 2025 WA Training Awards will be presented at a ceremony in September, with the event showcasing vocational students' talents across industries including broadcasting, events, floristry, hairdressing and beauty.
The 2025 WA Training Awards are made possible through a partnership with the State Training Board and the generous support of Principal Sponsor MEGT, and category sponsors, the Training Accreditation Council, Apprenticeship Support Australia powered by the Chamber of Commerce of Industry WA, Construction Training Fund, Maxima and BUSY At Work.
For more information visit www.dtwd.wa.gov.au/watrainingawards/winners-and-finalists
As stated by Skills and TAFE Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"The WA Training Awards recognise the outstanding talent, achievements and contributions individuals and organisations make to our world-class vocational training sector.
"This year's individual finalists are fantastic ambassadors for vocational training, with their unique stories representative of the many ways vocational training transforms lives.
"I'm especially thrilled to see that regional Western Australians represent 21 out of the 32 individual finalists, highlighting the important role our regional WA TAFEs play in providing affordable and accessible training in their local communities.
"I congratulate this year's finalists, and I look forward to celebrating their success at the 2025 WA Training Awards presentation ceremony in September."
Profiles of 2025 WA Training Awards finalists
INDIVIDUAL FINALISTS
WA Trainer of the Year
Caroline Constant - Kununurra
Lecturer - North Regional TAFE in Certificate II to Diploma level qualification in Business and Finance
A chance traineeship in 2011 kicked-started Caroline's career in the VET sector where she quickly developed an appreciation of how VET connects learning directly to real-world skills. Today, she is known for her exemplary dedication, innovation and impact on the VET landscape in North Regional Western Australia. She lectures students in some of the most remote parts of WA, with more than 90 per cent located across the Kimberley and Pilbara regions learning online. Through adapting her teaching technique to suit her students, Caroline has created learning that is creative, culturally-sensitive, flexible and supportive.
Rebecca Davis - Coolbellup
Trainer - John Curtin College of the Arts in Certificate II in Creative Industries Front of House and Certificate III in Arts and Cultural Administration
As the stage and front of house manager and head theatre technician at John Curtin College of the Arts, it was Rebecca's passion for VET and direct work collaborating with both students and industry professionals that prompted her to become a vocational trainer. The transition from stage manager to trainer has given Rebecca the opportunity to directly impact the success of the students. Rebecca has helped transform the delivery for the Certificate II in Creative Industries Front of House qualification, creating a more coherent learning journey for students. This has led to 100 per cent retention and completion rates and strong employment opportunities for students.
Lisette Monsello - Lamington
Lecturer - Central Regional TAFE in Certificate II and III Commercial Cookery and Hospitality and Certificate IV and Diploma qualifications in Hospitality
With more than 30 years' experience in the hospitality industry, Lisette brings a combination of up-to-date industry knowledge and educational expertise to her role. Lisette tailors her training to directly align with industry needs and pathways to employment. Her student cohort is diverse and includes Aboriginal students, community-based learners, international students, and those with disabilities or learning support needs. Her commitment to supporting her students extends beyond academic learning. She created a program that provides valuable skills, confidence, social inclusion and a sense of belonging. Her philosophy centres on fostering confidence, employability and industry readiness for every student.
Chanelle Williams - Cable Beach
Lecturer - North Regional TAFE in Certificate III and Diploma qualifications in Early Childhood Education and Care
Chanelle has played a pivotal role in leading the Early Childcare Education and Care team at North Regional TAFE developing and improving the program for students in the Kimberley and Pilbara regions. She played a key role in developing an Early Childhood skillset pilot program aimed at attracting local residents into the early childhood education and care sector. Chanelle collaborated with the Ngunga Group Women's Aboriginal Corporation in Derby to tailor training for local educators and as a result there has been a significant increase in Aboriginal student participation. She goes above and beyond to adapt training delivery to meet the needs of diverse learners, particularly those facing barriers to participation.
WA International Student of the Year
Munkh-Orgil Arslanbaatar - Perth
Diploma of Business
Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE
Munkh's passion for entrepreneurship, leadership and creativity spurred his move from Mongolia to Perth to pursue training in business, which he says was the biggest decision of his life and the most rewarding. Having run his own caf, launched a social media agency and taught Mongolian language to children at the Mongolian Association, Munkh has been able to apply the practical skills he has learnt throughout his qualification every day.
Linda Larbi - Sommerville
Certificate IV in Community Services
Trained at: Central Regional TAFE
Employed at: SMYL Community Services (Jobs and Skills Centre)
Linda started her career in the community services sector in Ghana where she developed a strong passion for education as well as wanting to make a positive impact in the community. She later worked in the finance sector for seven years. Following her move to Australia, she chose to return to her true passion - community work. She completed her qualification in Community Services where she was exposed to practical, face-to-face learning that enriched her understanding of legal and ethical frameworks and community support practices. Currently working with SMYL Community Services under the Jobs and Skills Centres project, Linda is actively involved in the wider community through her role with the Multicultural Community Board, the African community and other local groups.
Anelie Libalib - South Kalgoorlie
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Trained at: Central Regional TAFE
Employed at: Goldfields Child Care Centre
Having grown up in a small town in the Philippines, Anelie says she has always understood the importance of early education. As a teacher in her home country, she was keen to further her studies in Early Childhood Education and Care following her move to Australia. Training inspired Anelie to deepen her understanding of how to nurture children during their foundational years where she could make a meaningful impact. She is currently studying for her diploma, while working as an assistant educator, which enables her to apply her new skills in real-time.
Giselle Vergara - South Kalgoorlie
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Trained at: Central Regional TAFE
Employed at: Goldfields Child Care Centre
Giselle had always dreamed of being an educator, but the university she won a scholarship to in her home country of the Philippines, did not offer the course she wanted. Her Aunty "threw her lifeline" and gave her a chance to move to Australia, so she could pursue her dream. She jumped at the opportunity to study a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care while working at Goldfields Child Care Centre, where she says she has been able to grow personally and professionally. Giselle has not only gained valuable skills while studying and working, but she has also been able to make a real difference in young lives.
WA Cultural Diversity Training Award
Saba Farzam - St James
Diploma of Screen and Media (Animation and Game Art)
Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE
Originally from Iran, Saba says it was a global robotics competition she participated in while in high school in South Korea that fostered her passion for game design. Having completed her Diploma of Screen and Media in 2024, Saba has now enrolled in an Advanced Diploma of Game Art and Design to further her knowledge. She says the practical and innovative learning opportunities provided during her training journey were pivotal to shaping her passion for the industry. The multicultural environment at TAFE has allowed Saba to interact with peers and lecturers from diverse backgrounds, helping her to connect with industry to secure internships and gain real-world experience.
Melody Inkoom - Mukinbudin
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Trained at: Central Regional TAFE
Employed at: Regional Early Education and Development (REED Mukinbudin)
As a child, Melody spent time in a children's hospital in Ghana where she observed the nurses' interactions with children, it was here that she decided early childhood education and care was the career for her. Melody successfully completed her Early Childhood Education and Care training, while completing Year 12. She then gained employment following her work placement with Regional Early Education and Development. Her future goal is to work towards becoming a paediatric nurse or child psychologist and says her experience in early childhood education and care has provided her with a solid foundation to pursue this educational pathway.
Amina Umer - Brabham
Certificate III in Adult Migrant English Program
Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE
Amina arrived in Australia in 2021 from Ethiopia with a life goal of building a better future for herself and family. She enrolled in a Certificate III in Adult Migrant English Program to improve her English and communication skills, so she could undertake further VET courses to work in aged care or nursing. Amina says training has not only improved her skills, but it has also given her hope and direction. She has more belief in herself and is excited about her future.
Samira Zare - Canning Vale
Advanced Diploma of Creative Product Development (Photography)
Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE
Photography has always been Samira's passion. Originally from Iran, Samira worked as a professional photographer in Turkey, but upon moving to Perth she discovered she needed Australian industry-recognised qualifications and local experience to work in the industry. Samara chose to enrol in an Advanced Diploma of Creative Product Development to expand her knowledge. Through her training journey she has gained invaluable technical skills and learned how to adapt her photography to the Australian industry. Samira's goal is to continue working in the Australian photography industry and share her passion with others, particularly with other aspiring photographers from diverse backgrounds.
WA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Sharita Croft - Rangeway
Diploma of Nursing
Trained at: Central Regional TAFE
Beginning her nursing journey in 2023 with a Certificate IV, Sharita progressed to a Diploma of Nursing after scoring 100 per cent on the LLN test. As a solo parent of two, including a child with ASD and ADHD, and caregiver to her brother with ASD, Sharita has had to navigate significant personal challenges to complete her training. She managed her responsibilities through a combination of time management and family support. She also received the Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship and the Mitsui E&P Scholarship. She now plans to undertake work placements in Perth and Geraldton, aiming to work with Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Services and pursue further training to work in remote nursing to support Aboriginal health.
Laurenzia Divilli - Broome
Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy
Trained at: North Regional TAFE
Laurenzia completed a Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy at North Regional TAFE Broome, gaining practical and theoretical skills in skincare, makeup, waxing, nail care, and salon operations. Motivated to represent Indigenous women in the beauty industry, and demonstrate career paths for others, she embraced her training to challenge herself and promote self-care. In addition to her salon talents, she has also earned qualifications in Leadership and Business and currently works in administration, where she is expanding her professional experience. Laurenzia is exploring how to fulfil her future goals, which include managing a salon or launching her own beauty business.
Kyen Graham - Redcliffe
Certificate III in Engineering - Fixed and Mobile Plant Mechanic
Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE
Employed at: BHP Operations Services
Having a proud Ngadju man on his father's side and Whadjuk Noongar on his mother's, Kyen started a Heavy Diesel Fitter Apprenticeship at BHP's Future Fit Academy in Forrestfield in 2023, providing him with both hands-on experience and theoretical training at a single location. With over four years of mining industry experience already under his belt, Kyen embraced this new opportunity at age 26 to expand his skills and career scope. Driven by a passion for continuous learning, his goal is to demonstrate that Aboriginal people can thrive academically and professionally in the mining and engineering sectors.
Kalirra Tesling - Woorree
Diploma of Beauty Therapy
Trained at: Central Regional TAFE
Kalirra, a proud Nyamal Martu woman from Port Hedland, completed her Diploma of Beauty Therapy at Central Regional TAFE. Having discovered a passion for beauty through the VET Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS) program, Kalirra's empathy and quiet confidence has earned her multiple awards, including the 2023 VETDSS Student Award, a Rio Tinto scholarship, and Central Regional TAFE's Aboriginal Student of the Year Award. Now working at Pure Skin & Beauty Geraldton, she empowers clients through culturally-grounded care. Kalirra's long-term goal is to launch a mobile beauty business serving remote Pilbara communities, blending creativity, resilience and connection to celebrate beauty in all its forms.
WA Vocational Student of the Year
Renee Garrett - Greenough
Diploma of Leadership and Management
Trained at: Central Regional TAFE
Six years ago, Renee made a bold career shift, entering the mining sector and embracing FIFO life. She spotted an opportunity to develop her skills and decided to enrol in a Diploma of Leadership and Management at Central Regional TAFE Geraldton, formalising years of experience in leadership and small business. Balancing FIFO work, a food van business and family life, she excelled in her studies with support from Rio Tinto. Her dedication earned her the Rio Tinto Outstanding Achievement Award in Management and a nomination for the Rio Tinto Emerging Leaders program. Renee is passionate about personal and professional growth, community impact, and empowering others through leadership and resilience.
Holly Hunter - Wilson
Certificate II in Electrotechnology
Trained at: South Metropolitan TAFE
Holly began a Certificate II in Electrotechnology to gain skills for a future in the electrical industry. Through a work placement with Schindler Lifts Australia, she was able to apply her learning in a real-world setting. With encouragement from her father - also an electrician - she was able to overcome her initial doubts about entering a male-dominated work environment. Training helped Holly realise she could gain hands-on experience while completing high school. Holly believes vocational training is not a backup, but a first-choice pathway that offers nationally recognised qualifications, practical skills, and future flexibility. Passionate and driven, Holly is excited to build a career in electrotechnology while keeping the doors open to further study.
Arabella Poole - South Perth
Certificate IV in Fitness
Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE
Arabella completed a Certificate IV in Fitness at North Metropolitan TAFE in 2024, gaining skills in anatomy, client assessment and program delivery. Her journey into fitness followed a 13-year battle with medical issues, which disrupted her initial education. Inspired by an occupational therapist, who recommended enrolling at TAFE, she turned to vocational training to rebuild her life. Now she is a personal trainer and group fitness instructor at Feel Your Best Fitness and Massage and is training in clinical Pilates. Arabella is passionate about inclusive, person-centred care. Her lived experience fuels her mission to create safe, empowering spaces for all through physical movement and connection.
Harrison Wilcox - Kenmare
Certificate II in Furniture Making Pathways
Trained at: Western Australian College of Agriculture, Narrogin
Harrison hails from Woodanilling, where his family runs a mixed farming enterprise with sheep, cattle and 2,000 hectares of crop. Harrison is completing year 12 and qualifications in Furniture Making, Automotive Vehicle Servicing, and Agriculture through the VET Delivered to Secondary Students program. Harrison excels in hands-on learning and has earned Highly Commended awards in trades. His training includes CPR, first aid, defensive driving, chemical handling and advanced wool handling. Passionate about farming and mechanics, Harrison aims to pursue a heavy diesel mechanic apprenticeship or go on to work on the family farm, applying his diverse skills to support rural industry.
WA Trainee of the Year
Mitchell Gregory - Victoria Park
Certificate III in Defence Industry Pathways Program
Trained at: South Metropolitan TAFE
Employed at: MEGT
After living on a farm in the Ferguson Valley, Mitchell decided to move to Perth to explore his career options. His journey to find his dream career has included roles in retail, hospitality management, and industrial sales. Seeking a more structured and technical path, Mitchell says the Defence Industry Pathways Program was a turning point, where he found his calling in the sector. The Program has equipped him with skills in machinery operation, technical drawing and logistics software. With growing industry connections and practical experience, and driven by adaptability, resilience, and a passion for learning, Mitchell is building a future career in the defence industry.
Sophie Marlow - South Hedland
Certificate IV in Business
Trained at: North Regional TAFE
Employed at: Town of Port Hedland
Born and raised in South Hedland, Sophie enrolled in a Certificate IV in Business online through North Regional TAFE's Pundulmurra Campus while working full-time as a trainee with the Town of Port Hedland. Graduating high school in 2020 during the pandemic, she faced limited vocational options and financial barriers to further study. She says her role in local government has allowed her to gain practical workplace skills while pursuing further education. With prior administrative experience, Sophie sought formal qualifications to support her career growth. Passionate about community development, she now sees diverse pathways within local government and is committed to making a meaningful impact in her hometown.
Sienna Oud - Wickham
Certificate II in Mechanical Engineering
Trained at: North Regional TAFE
Employed at: Rio Tinto
Coming from a background where apprenticeships and traineeships weren't really promoted, Sienna always thought university was the only way to succeed, but a traineeship changed all that. With a passion for understanding how machines work, Sienna embraced the opportunity to build technical skills in a large-scale industrial setting through completing a Certificate II in Mechanical Engineering while working as a lubrication technician with Rio Tinto. She has since gained hands-on experience with tools, machinery, and welding while developing a strong understanding of safety protocols essential in the mining industry. Sienna says the experience has opened her eyes to exciting new career pathways in the mining and engineering sectors.
Elisajane Thompson - Toodyay
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Trained at: Central Regional TAFE
Employed at: Toodyay Early Learning Centre
Elisajane was heading for a career as a state-level ballerina when fate took a turn and she tore her ACL, resulting in a knee reconstruction and an end to a career on the stage. Elisajane was forced to reconsider other career paths and she chose early childhood education and care. Her greatest concerns, though, were her learning disabilities. Although worried about disclosing them at her initial interview, she was so glad she did, as the support she received ensured she had everything she needed to succeed. She is passionate about making a positive impact on children's lives, but her ultimate goal is to complete a teaching qualification, which would not have been possible without her traineeship.
WA School-based Apprentice of the Year
Sienna Bennett - South Hedland
Certificate II in Sport and Recreation
Trained at: North Regional TAFE
Employed at: Programmed
Host Employer: Town of Port Hedland
Sienna was born in Australia and raised in Port Hedland, where she was immersed in the Tongan and Fijian cultures of her parents' homeland. She chose a training pathway with host employer the Town of Port Hedland, which allows her to embrace her love of sports and experience in helping run local events with a career pathway. Passionate about sport and community, Sienna volunteers with Little Athletics, touch rugby and serves on the Youth Advisory Council. Being raised among dedicated sports enthusiasts inspired Sienna to pursue a career in recreation, health, and local government, where she continues to grow and develop her skills.
Cadie Doyle - South Hedland
Certificate II in Engineering
Trained at: North Regional TAFE
Employed at: Category 5 Labour Management
Host employer: BHP Rail
Cadie's interest in engineering was first sparked in Year 9 when she took a metalwork class. She immediately enjoyed working with metal, especially welding, and enjoyed the satisfaction of completing a project. Now in a school-based apprenticeship working at BHP Rail, she loves the hands-on experience in MIG and stick welding, grinding, and maintaining safe workspaces. Cadie says the experience has given her confidence and helped her to develop team work and leadership skills. She enjoys the variety of tasks and the opportunity to build strong relationships with her team. Passionate about engineering, Cadie is motivated to continue learning and developing a rewarding career in the industry.
Leonard Golding - Bateman
Certificate III in Sport, Aquatics and Recreation
Trained at: Southern Education
Employed at: Leisure Employment Australia
Leonard has always been into sport, representing Australia and Western Australia in baseball. He immediately knew a traineeship in the fitness industry was what he wanted to do as it brought together everything he loves: being near the water, staying active, working in a sporting environment and most importantly, being around people. Leonard says his traineeship, supported by online learning, has given him real-world experience in lifeguarding, customer service and recreation operations. He has developed leadership skills, confidence in emergency situations, and strong connections with staff and peers.
Lucas Grieve - Cuballing
Certificate II in Government
Trained at: Aspire Performance Training
Employed at: Department of Education
Originally interested in teaching, Lucas was surprised to discover a passion for working in office environments after he began his traineeship at the Department of Education. Attending the office twice a week, he developed skills in administration, communication and workplace professionalism. Lucas says his traineeship has helped him build confidence, understand government operations and master time management and technology. Grateful for the traineeship opportunity, Lucas values the practical learning and clarity it has given him. Unlike many of his peers, he now has a new goal and thanks to the experience, he now plans to study for a Diploma of Sports Business.
WA Apprentice of the Year
Jessica Garnett - East Fremantle
Certificate III in Engineering Mechanical (Fitting)
Trained at: South Metropolitan TAFE
Employed at: Programmed
Host Employer: Woodside Energy
As a young adult Jessica realised that her ability to pull apart and repair almost anything was a valuable skill which she could build a career around. When it came time to choose a career pathway, an apprenticeship as a mechanical fitter was a logical step. Born in the mining town of Dampier, she completed her apprenticeship within the oil and gas industry as a part of the Programmed National Energy Technician Training Scheme (NETTS) and feels her training has equipped her with a diverse range of skills. Jessica says the apprenticeship, especially the Programmed NETTS scheme, has been an amazing training experience and one she always recommends to others.
Lewis Italiano - Wokalup
Certificate III in Cabinetmaking and Timber Technology
Trained at: South Regional TAFE
Employed at: Milton Studios
Although Lewis has only recently completed his apprenticeship in cabinetmaking, his career pathway has already afforded him a huge and diverse range of experiences. Most notably, Lewis has succeeded at WorldSkills competitions, taking out the gold medal on the national stage, and representing Australia in his skill at international level where he was recognised with a Medallion for Excellence. His commitment to excellence has led him to complete countless hours of voluntary extra training pushing himself to be the best at his craft. Growing up in the small town of Wokalup, Lewis enjoyed woodwork at school and found his ambitions shifting from the family farm to a career working in timber. His passion has since taken him to France and Japan and he now plans to further extend his skills with a qualification in carpentry.
Tana Kickett - Dampier
Certificate III in Engineering Tradesperson Electrical
Trained at: North Regional TAFE
Employed at: Programmed
Host Employer: Woodside Energy
Tana's job was as an office administrator at the site where she now works as a qualified electrician. At age 31, having kept her application for an apprenticeship a secret in case she failed, she finally made the jump to a job she loves with a dual-trade Certificate III in Engineering Tradesperson Electrical and Certificate IV in Instrumentation.Now working on Woodside Energy's Pluto Train 2 Project and driven by a desire to inspire her children - especially her daughter - Tana has proved it's never too late to pursue new goals. Her journey from site administrator to qualified tradesperson reflects resilience, passion and a commitment to showing women they belong in trades.
Lara Rognetta - Collie
Certificate III in Engineering Mechanical (Fitting)
Trained at: South Regional TAFE
Employed at: South 32 Worsley Alumina
Raised in Harvey on a small property, Lara was inspired by her father and grandfather to pursue a hands-on career. A high school visit to South32's Female Work Inspiration program solidified her decision to get a qualification in Mechanical Fitting. At South32 Worsley Alumina, Lara performed equipment maintenance, with a strong focus on safety and precision, but the high point during her training was being able to complete a shift rotation with her grandfather. As a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Lara doesn't want lower expectations placed upon her because she is female. She is committed to excelling in her trade, challenging gender expectations and inspiring future generations.
WA Small Employer of the Year
Consolidated Group of Companies
Founded in 2013, Consolidated Group of Companies (CGC) has evolved from an equipment hire business into a dynamic group of companies, including Indigenous-owned EK Contracting and Consolidated Transport. With a strong focus on innovation, safety and training, CGC supports Western Australia's mining, civil, and transport sectors. The leadership team brings diverse life experiences, united by a mission to simplify challenges and create meaningful, skill-building employment. CGC is committed to empowering individuals through steady work and career development, making a lasting impact across industries while fostering inclusive growth and opportunity.
WA Large Employer of the Year
Department of Justice
With over 10,000 employees, the Department of Justice is committed to building a capable, future-focused workforce through continuous learning and development. The Department prioritises safety, rehabilitation and education across its Corrective Services branch, which manages prisons, detention centres, and community corrections. In 2023/24, it supported over 7,000 adult prisoners and 1,500 youth under supervision. Facilities span metropolitan and regional areas, offering diverse training and rehabilitation programs. With over $2.5 million invested in staff training, the Department fosters growth, wellbeing and career advancement for both employees and those in its care.
Mader Group
Founded in 2005 in the Kimberley, Mader Group has grown from a one-man operation into a global leader in specialist maintenance services across mining, energy, and industrial sectors. With over 3,800 skilled experts supporting over 430 customers worldwide, Mader delivers flexible, high-quality solutions that keep operations running. Built on innovation, strong relationships and a hands-on culture, Mader empowers its workforce and fosters career growth. Led by trade-qualified professionals, the company champions excellence and teamwork. Celebrating 20 years, Mader is proud to continue its approach: tackling problems head-on and delivering expert maintenance solutions that keep industries moving.
WA Industry Collaboration Award
Capacity Building to Strengthen the Aboriginal Allied Health Workforce
Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services
Insight Training
North Regional TAFE
The Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS) is a private RTO which delivers high-quality VET training in the Kimberley region, an area of approximately 423,000 square kilometres. In 2023, KAMS launched a pilot allied health program to upskill family support workers with a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance. Partnering with Insight Training and North Regional TAFE, the program offers face-to-face training blocks in Broome, and language, literacy, numeracy, and digital skills support. With flexible delivery and strong student support, the initiative empowers Aboriginal communities by enhancing local healthcare capacity through culturally-responsive, community-controlled education.
Construction and Trade Program
SEDA
BGC
Training provider SEDA and BGC recognised an opportunity to boost the future pipeline of workers for the building and construction industry, by creating opportunities for students who had an interest in the industry. The Construction Trade Program integrates the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) with VET. Delivered at a purpose-built site in Hazelmere, students gain hands-on experience in real construction environments, supported by BGC staff and industry experts. The program develops practical and theoretical skills, builds career pathways and fosters strong industry connections. A dedicated team from both organisations ensures student wellbeing, safety and success, while promoting collaboration and immersive learning across metropolitan construction sites.
WA Small Training Provider of the Year
Future Institute of Australia
Future Institute of Australia (the Institute) is a WA-based training organisation dedicated to transforming workplaces through tailored leadership, management, WHS, and people-skills training. Known for its high level of customisation, the Institute partners closely with clients to deliver contextualised programs that build real capability. Offerings include accredited qualifications, non-accredited development programs and bespoke eLearning solutions. With a strong focus on outcomes, the Institute celebrates the achievements of its graduates and the passion of its team. Innovative projects like 'Building Habits That Matter', with its focus on interpersonal development skills for apprentices, highlight its commitment to workforce development.
Taylorweir Hairdresser & Barber Training
Taylorweir Hairdresser & Barber Training (Taylorweir) is Western Australia's longest-established private RTO in hairdressing and barbering. Renowned for innovative, student-focused education, Taylorweir delivers nationally accredited programs with personalised support and industry-driven training. With small class sizes and a passionate team, it fosters a vibrant learning community and produces highly skilled professionals. Training 46 per cent of WA's hairdressing and barbering apprentices, former alumni often entrust their apprentices to Taylorweir for training or return as mentors themselves. Award-winning and industry-recognised, and with 29 years of excellence in its field, Taylorweir continues to lead the way in shaping careers in hairdressing and barbering.
Western Australian College of Agriculture - Denmark
The Western Australian College of Agriculture (WACoA) offers high-quality education and training in agricultural and rural industries. With campuses across WA, the college provides hands-on learning in crop production, livestock management, horticulture, rural business, and agribusiness. Students gain practical skills, industry knowledge and real-world experience through state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry partnerships. Serving both regional and metropolitan students, WACoA fosters a deep understanding of agricultural challenges and opportunities. Its experienced staff and immersive programs prepare graduates for successful careers in agriculture, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the sector.
WA Large Training Provider of the Year 2025
LTT Group Pty Ltd
Established in Perth in 2005, LTT Group (LLT) is a private RTO specialising in laboratory operations and phlebotomy training. It delivers tailored training for workplaces and centre-based courses for individuals. LTT's mission is to provide real learning, commercial value and expert industry guidance. Programs are developed in close consultation with industry to ensure graduates gain relevant, practical skills for employment. Whether updating skills for a current role or starting a new career, students are equipped to become valuable assets to employers. LTT focuses on hands-on, industry-aligned training to meet workforce needs across metropolitan and regional areas.
North Metropolitan TAFE
North Metropolitan TAFE (NM TAFE) is WA's largest TAFE, with nine campuses across Perth's northern suburbs. Offering over 350 courses across 70 industries, NM TAFE equips students with real-world skills through industry-aligned training. The college leads initiatives like the CLIP program, enabling lecturers to gain industry experience and enrich classroom learning. NM TAFE supports student wellbeing, inclusivity, and accessibility, including programs such as Koombal Birdal (Big Spark) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. With a focus on innovation, digital transformation, and partnerships, NM TAFE prepares students for future jobs and supports WA's economic growth. Its vision is: 'Transforming lives; strengthening industry and community.'
Training Worx Australia
Training Worx Australia is a private RTO known for clarity, care, and impactful results. Since becoming an RTO in 2012, it has grown rapidly, training 558 students in the past year. Specialising in leadership, WHS, business capability and trainer/assessor qualifications, Training Worx tailors programs to industry needs, serving sectors like mining, logistics, civil engineering and education. Its mission - 'Making the difficult easy' - drives course design and delivery across both metropolitan and regional areas. With strong partnerships, a new digital platform, and over 250 five-star reviews, Training Worx empowers learners through relevant, personalised and values-driven training.
