Trainee of the Year and School-based Apprentice of the Year are among the awards won by Charles Darwin University students at the 2011 NT Training Awards.
Trainee of the Year Melissa Agnew recently completed a Certificate II in Animal Studies at Crocodylus Park through CDU, working with the crocodile production team to capture and move hundreds of crocodiles between enclosures.
Ms Agnew, who now works for the park, is continuing her studies with CDU. She is currently completing her Certificate III in Animal Studies and is considering undertaking a university degree.
CDU Certificate III Electrotechnology Systems Electrician student Rebecca Langley won the Austin Asche Apprentice of the Year.
Ms Langley took up an electrical apprenticeship after 10 years in the hospitality industry. She did not have any experience in the field before her apprenticeship, and said she counted becoming an electrician as her proudest achievement to date.
Winner of the School Based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year and Darwin High School student Connor Reid is currently studying a Certificate III Automotive Technology (Heavy) through CDU and hopes to become a diesel mechanic.
He first enrolled in an Industry Placement plan in grade nine, which led to him being offered a school-based apprenticeship with the company the following year.
Vocational Student of the Year Carine Kapiamba arrived in the NT three years ago as a refugee from Congo.
The mother of four has successfully completed a Diploma of Business to improve her English and business skills and is now enrolled at CDU in a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Management.
CDU was well represented by a number of students, trainers and initiatives at this year’s awards.
Some 11 CDU students were among 40 of the Territory’s top apprentices, trainees, and vocational students announced as finalists, with several receiving runner up awards.
For more information and details of the category finalists and category sponsors, visit: www.det.nt.gov.au/events/trainingawards.