The best and brightest of Territorys trainers, trainees and employers of 2018 were recognised at last nights NT Training Awards at the Darwin Convention Centre.
Nathan Powell, a former police officer who began a mature age electro-technology apprenticeship so he could spend more time with his young family, took out the coveted Austin Asche Apprentice of the Year title.
Employers recognised for their outstanding commitment to nurturing apprentices and trainees included Hot Tamale Mexican Cantina on Darwins waterfront in the small business category, and Territory-wide ICT provider NEC in the medium business category.
The Territory Labor recognises the importance of Vocational Education and Training (VET) and invests more than $70 million annually to train and support Territorians.
As of June 2018, there were 3291 apprentices and trainees across the Territory.
There were 39 finalists in 12 categories at this years NT Training Awards, from fields such as electro-technology, early childhood, business, fitness, agriculture, conservation and construction.
A number of winners will now go on to represent the NT at the Australia Training Awards in Sydney on 15 November.
As stated by Minister for Workforce Training, Selena Uibo.
The Territory Labor Governments number one priority is jobs and VET plays an important role in future proofing our workforce.
Developing a strong local workforces means local business can take advantage of new opportunities and support the economic development of the Northern Territory.
Its great to see that nearly one in five nominees this year came from regional and remote areas, reflecting the Territory Labor Governments strong investment in jobs in the bush.
Id like to congratulate all this years winners and finalists on their fantastic achievements.
As stated by Nathan Powell, Austin Asche Apprentice of the Year
As a family we have had to make huge sacrifices so that in the future I can have a better work life balance. Being recognised by my peers is a great feeling and that the hard work and sacrifices are certainly paying off.
Quotes Attributable to NEC Regional Manager, Damien Charles.
Over decades, NEC has taken its obligation to staff development very seriously. The company is committed to creating jobs that enable people to work, live and raise families in the NT.
Where possible, NEC brings training providers to Darwin rather than sending people interstate. This approach maximises the companys investment and allows multiple staff to be trained concurrently.
As stated by Hot Tamale owner David Robinson
Training increases product and practice knowledge, which in turn allows our team to speak with authority when dealing with our client base and the questions they have about our product.
Our training produces a good calibre of employees, who go on to work and train new employees in our industry, locally and globally.
2018 NORTHERN TERRITORY TRAINING AWARD WINNERS
INDIVIDUAL CATEGORIES
Austin Asche Apprentice of the Year
Nathan Powell
Trainee of the Year
Kimberley Brewster
Vocational Student of the Year
Kaylee Appleyard
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
Sonny Malmerin-Fejo
VET in School Student of the Year
Jemma Young
School-Based Apprentice of the Year
Tullalah Ormsby
VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year
Chrissy Zelly
International Student of the Year
Manfred Mletsin
ORGANISATION CATEGORIES
Small Employer of the Year
Hot Tamale Mexican Cantina
Medium Employer of the Year
NEC
Training Provider of the Year
Charles Darwin University
Industry Collaboration Award
PFES Cadet Program
