Finalists announced for 30th WA Training Awards

• 41 finalists announced for the WA Training Awards 2024
• Record number of submissions received from applicants training in diverse range of industries
• Individual winners will become ambassadors for WA's vocational training sector
• Winners will be announced at 30th anniversary presentation ceremony in September

Winners will be announced at a presentation ceremony in September, with individual recipients also taking home a $3,000 cash prize.

Individual award recipients become ambassadors for Western Australia's vocational training sector and, following their win, are given the opportunity to take part in a variety of speaking engagements and be involved in promotional activities to inspire others to take up vocational training opportunities.

Since taking out the WA Vocational Student of the Year award in 2023, Kai Baharthah-King has been involved in promotional activities for his former TAFE. Most recently, he took part in the SkillsWest Careers Expo where he demonstrated his cyber security skills to visitors, as part of his preparations to represent Australia at the upcoming WorldSkills International Competition in Lyon, France.

Amy Hunt, last year's WA Apprentice of the Year, went on to be named Apprentice of the Year at the 2023 Australian Training Awards. She has also had a busy year as an ambassador, most recently speaking at the National Apprentice Employment Network 2024 Conference in Adelaide.

This year's WA Training Awards presentation ceremony is set to be bigger and better than ever, with vocational students at the heart of the program. The event will give vocational students an opportunity to showcase and practise their skills in industries such as broadcasting, events, floristry, hairdressing, music, and patisserie.  

The WA Training Awards are made possible through a partnership with the State Training Board and the generous support of Principal Sponsor MEGT, as well as category sponsors the Training Accreditation Council, Apprenticeship Support Australia powered by the Chamber of Commerce of Industry WA, Construction Training Fund, Maxima and ReadyTech.

For more information visit: www.dtwd.wa.gov.au/watrainingawards/winners-and-finalists.

Comments attributed to Training and Workforce Development Minister Simone McGurk:

"WA's training sector continues to thrive with record numbers taking up vocational training opportunities and pathways to participate in our State's strong and diversifying economy.

"The calibre of this year's WA Training Awards finalists reflects the world-class training on offer through our State's vocational training system. 

"The individual finalists are fantastic ambassadors for vocational training and their stories demonstrate how training changes lives.

"I congratulate this year's finalists and look forward to learning more about their training journey at the WA Training Awards presentation ceremony in September."

Profiles of 2024 WA Training Awards finalists

INDIVIDUAL FINALISTS

WA Trainer of the Year 2024

Tam Nguyen – Karrinyup

Lecturer – North Metropolitan TAFE in Certificate III and IV, Commercial Cookery and Certificate III and IV, Patisserie

Tam Nguyen's career is testament to the old idiom 'the proof is in the pudding'. His journey has come full circle, as he has gone from being a commercial cookery student competing in culinary competitions, to being on the other side as a lecturer, coaching students to compete in national and international competitions. With a Master of Education, Tam revels in the opportunity to pass on the skills his lecturers gave him to the next generation of industry professionals. This year Tam travelled to Germany to support students in the Culinary Olympics, a competition he competed in back in 2008. Tam says cookery competitions help prepare students for their transition to a busy kitchen upon graduating.

Lisa Piller – Subiaco

Lecturer – South Metropolitan TAFE in Fashion and Fashion Business

Lisa Piller is a researcher, academic and advocate for systemic change to the fashion supply chain. As a lecturer in fashion design and fashion business, she draws on her extensive experience working in fashion product design and development, with a focus on sustainable supply chain management. Lisa is a published academic and involved in several committees and working groups. An advocate for VET teaching and learning and the positive impact it can have for young people, Lisa has also been involved with WorldSkills Australia for many years. This experience, combined with her research and advocacy in sustainability and the circular economy, has connected her to a broad VET and tertiary community throughout Australia, enabling her to benchmark training and delivery at TAFEs across the country.

Rick Spooner – Australind

Lecturer – South Regional TAFE in Certificate III Mobile Plant Technology, Certificate III Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technology and Certificate III Automotive Electrical

With a reputation for being dedicated to his students and peers, Rick is passionate about the automotive profession. Committed to reviewing current delivery practices for continuous improvement, Rick incorporates blended learning with online resources. He develops visual aids by making components and models using 3D printing and uses examples from his own experience to help students understand how they can apply their own skills at work. Rick's innovative delivery approach brings life into the delivery of learning for both the student and trainer, making his classes interactive, engaging, reflective, stimulating and challenging. Committed to maintaining active engagement with industry, Rick strives to ensure students get the best possible knowledge and experience in their training environment.

Darren Way – Craigie

Principal Lecturer – South Metropolitan TAFE in Defence, Mechanical & Fabrication Portfolio  

With over 20 years of trade experience as a qualified Boilermaker/First Class Welder, and 15 years' experience training and mentoring, Darren empowers his students to take ownership and scaffold their own learning, building the skills and knowledge they need. With a commitment to collaboration and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Darren not only imparts knowledge to students but also mentors fellow lecturers. By ensuring that his educational programs remain aligned with industry standards and trends, and incorporating emerging technologies into the curriculum, Darren provides flexible, quality teaching that addresses industry/employer expectations and prepares his students for successful and rewarding careers.

WA International Student of the Year 2024

Juliana dos Santos de Paula – Scarborough

Diploma of Events Management

Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE

Juliana describes herself as a natural organiser, which is why she gravitated towards a career in events. Currently completing a Diploma of Events Management at North Metropolitan TAFE, the theoretical knowledge and practical experience she says she's learnt has been invaluable.

Originating from Brazil, Juliana says education has been life-changing for her. Coming from limited means, she was the first person in her family to earn a degree and came to Australia to seek a fresh start and fulfill her career and life aspirations. Juliana loves the events industry because it allows her to contribute to the community by providing unique and valuable experiences that build awareness and promote social cohesion and philanthropy.

Tim Fausten – Perth

Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking)

Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE

Tim's decision to return to Australia to study was a given, having ventured here in 2017 on a working holiday, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Back home when he was seeking a career change, his fascination with information technology continued to grow, which led him to enrol in a Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking) at North Metropolitan TAFE. Having already completed a Certificate IV in Information Technology last year, Tim says he is learning new skills and knowledge that are essential for a future career in IT. Tim is well on his way to fulfilling his career aspirations.

Ivan Tarakanov – Kalamunda

Diploma of Screen and Media (Film and Television)

Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE

Described as a 'multi-faceted creative' by his TAFE lecturer, Ivan, a dancer and choreographer, realised the importance of screen and media in the arts following COVID-19 when his industry was severely impacted. In 2019, he created his first full-length ballet in Perth in collaboration with Pevnev Ballet Academy. Following this, he wanted to learn more about playwriting, the structure of the performance and the history of theatre. Having completed a film and television directing degree in his home country of Russia, Ivan says as an artist he wanted to continue to create art that showed all different values and opinions. He searched for a filmmaking course and decided on Australia because of its strong education system and TAFE's flexible teaching style.

Thais Carrascoza – Beeliar

Diploma of Community Services

Trained at: Acknowledge Education

Fuelled by a desire to help women who are victims of domestic violence rebuild their lives, Thais enrolled in the Diploma of Community Services with an aim of making a positive impact in her community. Originally from Brazil, she wanted to offer support and assistance to empower marginalised people - in particular women from diverse backgrounds. By undertaking her training, Thais hopes to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively address the needs of those women affected by domestic violence. Learning counselling techniques, case management strategies and cultural sensitivity has been invaluable. She says she applies her newfound expertise in real-world settings, while working directly with multicultural women to offer them the assistance and guidance they deserve. Thais' goal is to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.

WA Cultural Diversity Training Award 2024

Tingting Cai – Willetton

Certificate IV in Business

Employed by: Crown Resorts Perth

Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE

Whether through advocacy, education or direct community engagement, Tingting is committed to making a positive impact by encouraging women and new immigrants in Australia to further their education and skills, resulting in a boost to their confidence and wellbeing. Originally from China, Tingting has completed a Certificate III in Spoken and Written English, Certificate III in Hospitality, and a Certificate IV in Business. Juggling study, work and family commitments, Tingting has worked hard to gain a valuable range of business skills, empowering her with the knowledge and confidence to succeed in her career. She is excited about the future and the opportunity to progress in her field.

Maryna Markosova – Daglish

Certificate III in English as an Additional Language (Access)

Employed by: Workcover WA

Trained at: South Metropolitan TAFE

With her personal motto "I am forever curious, forever learning", Maryna chose to undertake a TAFE course to improve her English and open the door to professional development opportunities. The course equipped her with the communication skills and confidence required to perform her job more effectively and led to a well-deserved promotion within her organisation. In addition to her professional achievements, Maryna has contributed to the community through volunteer work and advocacy. She collaborated with other refugees to host an event on World Refugee Day, sharing her story of being a refugee from Ukraine and her journey of strength and resilience.

Faran Mortezaei Vahid – Hilton

Certificate III in English as an Additional Language (Access)

Employed by: Moment Makers Media

Trained at: South Metropolitan TAFE

Reflecting on his experiences in the Iranian and Afghan communities, Faran observed the transformative power of engaging with diverse communities, inspiring his desire to be an advocate for cultural inclusivity and diversity. Undertaking an English course after he arrived in Australia helped Faran feel more settled, giving him the confidence to express his thoughts and ideas, and connect with others. It also empowered him to pursue his entrepreneurial goals and establish a successful photography and videography business. Faran responds to life challenges positively, viewing them as stepping stones and opportunities for growth. He is an advocate for the destigmatisation of mental health issues, actively encouraging open discussions on the topic and the importance of seeking professional help when needed.

WA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year 2024

Albert Bevan – Broome

Certificate IV in Mental Health

Employed by: Broome Aboriginal Medical Services

Trained at: Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services

Having completed his Certificate IV in Mental Health with Kimberley Aboriginal Services, Albert is now employed at the Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Services as a Social and Emotional Wellbeing Officer. He says completing his qualification has given him a greater understanding of mental health within his professional role and as an individual. It has given him insight into the importance of education and skills to be able to identify, address, manage and provide support for mental health. He uses his lived experience to naturally talk to people of all walks of life about the importance of good mental health. Albert has become an advocate for training, citing his training experience as a truly remarkable and significant journey for him.

Jessica Edgar – Cable Beach

Certificate IV in Mental Health

Employed by: St Mary's College

Trained at: Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services RTO

Jessica's inspirational training journey started with her own personal mental health struggles she experienced as a teenager and as an adult, as well as a family tragedy that she experienced 13 years ago. This lived experience motivated her decision to study mental health to gain a better understanding of how she can change the narrative in the Kimberley region. Learning how to support and advocate for Aboriginal people in her community has been the driving force for her future career aspirations. Jessica intends to use her Certificate IV in Mental Health as a stepping stone to enrol in a Bachelor of Psychology. 

Darren Green – Ardyaloon

Certificate IV in Retail Management

Employed by: Bardi Ardyaloon Store

Trained at: Outback Stores RTO

Originally from the inland community of Looma, situated 120km south-east of Derby, Darren now lives and works in Ardyaloon or One Arm Point – also known as Bardi, an Aboriginal community town on the Dampier Peninsula in the Kimberley region. His training journey began working at Outback Stores. After completing a Certificate III in Retail, he was promoted to a supervisor role. His goal to become an assistant manager and gain further knowledge and understanding of the retail industry, so that he could one day run his own business, or manage the local store in Bardi, was soon fulfilled. Darren successfully completed a Certificate IV in Retail Management, which resulted in a further promotion to Assistant Manager. Darren has been identified as a talented and an emerging leader within his workplace. 

Carmen Ward – Dianella

Diploma in Business

Employed by: Yued Aboriginal Corporation

Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE

Having previously completed a Certificate IV in Business, and now a Diploma in Business, Carmen is on her way to achieving her long-term career goal of completing a business degree to one day work in a management role. Selected to be a part of the Yanalangami Changemakers – a National Aboriginal leadership program – while undertaking her Diploma, Carmen says her involvement with other Aboriginal women around the country has been invaluable. The knowledge she gained during this program and throughout her training has been used both professionally and personally.

WA Vocational Student of the Year 2024

Aliah Al-Shabib – Riverton

Certificate IV in Cyber Security

Trained at: South Metropolitan TAFE

Aliah is a passionate advocate for the hands-on learning style she has experienced while studying a Certificate IV in Cyber Security at South Metropolitan TAFE. She credits this style of learning with enhancing her understanding and application of cyber security in real-world settings.

Her journey began at university where she studied a double degree in cyber security and criminology but struggled with her cyber units. Following her father's suggestion to try TAFE, Aliah commenced her course and has not looked back. She continues to advocate for vocational and educational training, citing her training journey as the reason for her success.

Zaine Cuthbert – Darkan

Certificate III in Agriculture    

Trained at: Western Australia College of Agriculture Narrogin

Zaine has always wanted a future in the agricultural sector and chose this career pathway to help him navigate his way to his dream job as an agronomist. While studying a Certificate III in Agriculture at the Western Australia College of Agriculture Narrogin, Zaine has developed the practical skills needed while extending his skillset and knowledge in agriculture. He credits his training with the development of essential skills such as resilience, adaptability and teamwork. Zaine is passionate about the industry, which has been the driving force behind his training, pushing him outside his comfort zones to learn as much as he can to guarantee a future career in the industry.

Nathan McGann – Mount Lawley

Certificate IV in Mental Health

Employed by: Avivo Life

Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE

A visit to the Jobs and Skills Centre at North Metropolitan TAFE, and overcoming lived experience with mental health challenges, helped Nathan decide on his chosen career pathway.

While studying psychology at university, he felt something was missing, so when the opportunity to study a Certificate IV in Mental Health as part of the 'FREE in '23' initiative was offered, Nathan jumped at the chance and has not looked back. He was able to gain both theoretical and practical knowledge during his training which provided him with invaluable insight into the industry and cemented his decision to choose this career pathway.

Thanh Thuy (Miley) Nguyen – Wattle Grove

Diploma of Community Services – Mental Health      

Trained at: Insight Training

A longing to make a difference, and soul searching to find a career pathway that would align with her values and aspirations, Miley made the decision to leave a career in civil engineering to embark on a training journey that would allow her to discover "profound happiness and inner peace". Driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the lives around her, and to serve the community and assist people in need, she enrolled in a Certificate IV of Community Services at South Metropolitan TAFE, and recently completed a Diploma of Community Services – Mental Health at Insight Training. It was there that Miley gained invaluable insight and says her training has profoundly impacted her personally and professionally, as her lecturers were industry professionals who provided practical approaches that helped her bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.

WA Trainee of the Year 2024

Poppy Blohm – Narrogin

Certificate III in Automotive Sales

Employed by: AFGRI Equipment      

Trained at: Central Regional TAFE

An active advocate for getting young people into the agricultural industry, Poppy's story demonstrates how doors open when you try something outside your comfort zone. With no personal or professional background in farming, Poppy began a traineeship where she learned the skills needed to assist farmers with their operations. She finds her work in this industry incredibly fulfilling and has gone on to win several awards. Poppy particularly enjoys working in a team environment and the pool of knowledge and experience she has been able to dip into. Poppy has had the opportunity to be a spokesperson for young people in agriculture, sharing her example of where persistence in education and study can take you.

Lucia Cutri – Roleystone

Certificate III in Business

Employed by: Statewide Bearings 

Trained at: MiTraining Ltd

Pursuing a career in human resources opened the door to a dynamic and welcoming environment for trainee Lucia. While traditional classroom-based education didn't appeal to Lucia, the hands-on training approach and invaluable on-the-job training of a vocational pathway gave her real workplace experience that helped set her up for success now and in her future career endeavours. Excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, Lucia is committed to continuous learning and advancement in the world of business and HR. With a positive attitude and caring nature, Lucia is committed to mentoring young leaders within her community. By overcoming personal challenges, Lucia has also learned the importance of perseverance and resilience and strives to bring this with her into the workplace.

Almira Dall – Cowaramup

Certificate IV in Agriculture

Employed by: Kerridge Farm Pty Ltd

Trained at: Western Dairy/South Regional TAFE

After completing Year 12, Almira was ready to commence a university pathway when she decided to take a gap year. Within weeks she was working on a dairy farm, quickly discovering a love for the practical, hands-on work. She enrolled in a traineeship and completed a Certificate III and Certificate IV in the agricultural industry. Working on a farm has provided unique and challenging situations for Almira, from opening her front door to discover a herd of cattle in her garden, to helping sick and injured animals. Almira is now a champion for the sector, highlighting the benefits of doing a traineeship and pursuing a career in the dynamic agricultural industry.

Lauryn Williams – Rivervale

Certificate III in Individualised Support (Disability)

Employed by: At Home Care

Trained at: Training Unlimited Pty Ltd

Initially scared to re-enter the world of education, Lauryn's story is testament to the incredible impact training can have on an individual, a workplace and in making a difference in the lives of others. As a disability support worker, Lauryn is described as dedicated, compassionate and always going above and beyond to ensure her client's needs are met. The opportunity to complete a qualification gave Lauryn the chance for professional development and to expand her knowledge, improving the quality of her work. She says this reignited her passion for learning and allowed her to share her experiences with like-minded individuals on a similar journey.

WA School-based Apprentice of the Year 2024

Emily Everett – Duncraig

Certificate III in Sport and Recreation

Employed by: Leisure Employment Australia

Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE

Emily chose to complete a school-based traineeship while at school to further her personal and professional development. Whilst balancing school, her traineeship and training as a diver, in which she is currently competing at a national level, she has gained invaluable life experience and is learning how to juggle multiple commitments. Since commencing at Belmont Oasis Leisure Centre, Emily has become certified in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding while also learning customer service skills. She says completing her Certificate III in Sport and Recreation has enabled her to gain numerous skills which in turn has strengthened her confidence. 

Ffion Henderson – Bicton

Certificate II in Workplace Skills

Employed by: Rottnest Express

Trained at: Vocational Training Services

When Ffion was in primary school, she volunteered at a turtle sanctuary in the Perhentian Islands in Malaysia working alongside marine biologists. This experience forever influenced her decision to pursue a marine-based career pathway. Her school VET coordinator encouraged her to undertake a school-based traineeship in Workplace Skills and complete a Certificate II in Aquaculture, and then a Certificate IV in Marine Biology in Year 12. She landed the first ever traineeship position with Rottnest Express and is the youngest person to work on the boats. Her dyslexia diagnosis made some academic achievements challenging but since starting her traineeship, gaining hands-on experience has helped her confidence grow in learning new skills in marine biology and boating, further fuelling her passion to pursue a career in marine tourism and marine engineering.

Noah McCallum – Bicton

Certificate II in Data and Voice Communications and Certificate III in Information Technology 

Employed by: Raytheon Australia

Trained at: South Regional TAFE

Noah's training journey began in Year 10 when an opportunity to start a school-based traineeship with Raytheon, a capability partner for the Australian Defence Force, came up in his hometown of Exmouth. The opportunity for a hands-on learning approach with real-life experiences was the driving force behind his decision to start his traineeship. He has gained insightful skills and knowledge that will be valuable for various positions in the defence space and will help build his skillset for his future career. With the support from his family, TAFE and his employer, Noah is well on his way to achieving his career goals after making the move to Perth to further his training, continue his education and seek new challenges.

Taya Sawtell – South Hedland

Certificate II in Rail Infrastructure (Track Work)

Employed by: Category 5 Labour Management

Host Employer: BHP

Trained at: Iron Training & Consulting

Growing up in the mining town of Port Hedland, Taya's fascination for rail infrastructure has always been present. She was inspired to pursue a career in this field because of her parents' success in the industry and decided to follow in their footsteps. Taya chose to start a school-based traineeship with host employer BHP where she would undertake training that would broaden her knowledge and understanding of the industry. While completing a Certificate II in Rail Infrastructure, she has gained first-hand experience in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and enjoys sharing her training journey with her peers.

WA Apprentice of the Year 2024

Simon Ashby – Padbury

Certificate III in Cabinet Making

Employed by: Kindred Design and Cabinetry

Trained at: North Metropolitan TAFE

At the age of 34, Simon decided to make a life changing career move and fulfil his enduring ambition to become a cabinet maker. With multiple qualifications already under his belt, from Business Management to Commerce, completing a mature-age apprenticeship in a field he is passionate about helped Simon feel reinvigorated and reenergised. As someone who loves working with their hands and creating beautiful things, Simon feels like he is finally able to dedicate himself to his craft and work in an industry where he can have a rewarding long-term career.

Kyle Bentley – Perth

Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology

Employed by: WesTrac

Trained at: WesTrac Training Institute

Since early childhood, Kyle showed an interest in understanding how things around him worked and found joy in fixing things. Initially enrolling in a university pathway, Kyle enjoyed the critical thinking and problem-solving skills this required, however he longed to use those skills in a more hands-on, practical environment. From here his interests turned into passion as he discovered a fulfilling and rewarding career path as an apprentice mobile plant mechanic. A team player with a strong work ethic, Kyle enjoys mentoring other apprentices who have followed in his footsteps and pushes himself daily to output quality workmanship, while also continuing to learn and grow.

Demi Bruzzese – Falcon

Diploma of Process Plant Technology

Employed by: Programmed

Host employer: Woodside Energy

Trained at: South Metropolitan TAFE

Unsure what she wanted to do with her career, Demi followed her dad's encouragement to undertake a Certificate II in Process Plant Operations. Demi loved the course and hasn't looked back since, going on to complete a diploma and an apprenticeship, and becoming an advocate for women working in the resources industry. Demi says working offshore has significantly impacted her life, teaching her a lot about herself, and that her training provided a platform for personal growth and independence. Demi now considers her offshore rig crew to be her second family and appreciates the lifelong skills and attributes she has developed through this journey, including self-reliance, determination, problem-solving and resilience.

Ellie Wotherspoon – Wembley Downs

Certificate III in Engineering (Industrial Electrician)

Employed by: Woodside Energy 

Trained at: South Metropolitan TAFE

Despite her grandfather, father and brother all being electricians, Ellie was always aware there were few female tradespeople in the country town she grew up in. Undeterred, Ellie stepped headfirst into the male-dominated energy industry through her apprenticeship and has since become an advocate for women in non-traditional trades. And if that is not enough, she also undertook a Bachelor of Secondary Education simultaneously, due for completion later this year. Through sheer dedication and determination, Ellie is on track to inspire the next generation of tradeswomen by taking her message straight to the source – secondary students planning their future career paths. 

ORGANISATION FINALISTS

Industry Collaboration Award

Central Regional TAFE

The Yamatji Sea Rangers Program is a collaboration between the Bundi Yamatji Aboriginal Corporation and Central Regional TAFE's Batavia Coast Maritime Institute to build Yamatji Nation marine park management capabilities. It aims to help emerging Yamatji Sea Rangers build their capacity to manage their traditional Sea Country, understand the biocultural values of the Abrolhos Marine Park and be active participants in its management. The collaboration provides training in marine operations, scientific research, and monitoring techniques through classroom-based learning at the Batavia Coast Maritime Institute; reinforced through practical on-Country training using the Marine Training Vessel MasterClass alongside Elders' knowledge and guidance. This two-way learning model combines traditional knowledge and practice, scientific methodology, and rigorous technical compliance so Sea Rangers can operate safely.

Fast Tracking a Skilled Workforce Initiative

Fast Tracking a Skilled Workforce is a collaboration comprising not-for-profit disability service providers Crosslinks (as the Lead Agency), Goldfields Individual and Family Support Association, Midwest Community Living Association, 4LifeSkills, Essential Personell, Diversity South, iinduct, and the DaV'ange Group. The collaboration aims to provide existing disability support workers in regional and remote Western Australia the opportunity to quickly advance their skills and qualifications through blended learning, including face-to-face training, video enabled learning, mapping of induction and in-service training, and Recognised Prior Learning. This provides solutions to workforce challenges faced by the disability sector, by enabling workers to gain formal qualifications, which leads to a skilled workforce, enhanced compliance and higher retention of staff.

Large Employer of the Year

Department of Justice

The Department of Justice Corrective Services supports the community, Western Australian Government, judiciary and Parliament through the provision of access to high quality justice, legal and corrective services, information and products. The Department of Justice Corrective Services Academy is an enterprise RTO which provides nationally recognised training to employees and is responsible for the identification and delivery of learning and development for all corrective services staff, including foundation training, ongoing work skills, corporate governance and compliance, and professional development. The Academy provides staff with the opportunity to develop and improve their skills, knowledge and personal attributes and to help them pursue their career goals.

Mader Group

Founded in Western Australia, Mader Group is a leading global provider of specialist technical services across multiple industries. Beginning in 2005, Founder and Executive Director Luke Mader initially operated as a one-man band out of his ute in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. During this time, Luke identified an underserviced 'niche' in the market, recognising that he could provide flexible maintenance solutions to improve everyday mining and civil operations. Mader Group has grown and adapted to provide a wide range of services, broadening its skillset and capacity to cater to a global network of operations. Now servicing the mining, energy and industrials sectors, it strategically tailors 'tap-on, tap-off' maintenance for customers across Australia, Asia, Africa and North America.

WesTrac

As one of the world's leading Caterpillar dealers and part of the Seven Group Holdings, WesTrac has been in operation for 34 years, providing equipment solutions to the mining, construction, forestry, agriculture, and transport industries. With 28 branches nationally and over 3,000 employees across Western Australia, WesTrac provides customers with a wide range of machinery and construction equipment as well as comprehensive whole-of-life management solutions to make owning and operating equipment easy, safe, and profitable. WesTrac ensures its people have the right skills, tools, and operating environment to achieve success. Through its purpose-built WesTrac Institute operating for over 30 years and a Technology Training Centre in Collie, its Learning and Development team provide an exceptional setting to foster and facilitate the organisation's learning culture.

Small Training Provider of the Year

Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services Ltd

Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services (KAMS) is a member based, regional Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO), providing support and representing the interests of eight independent ACCHOs from towns and remote communities across the Kimberley region of Western Australia, and Kimberley Renal Services, a wholly owned subsidiary. Governed by a board made up of highly respected and experienced Aboriginal representatives, KAMS deliver holistic and culturally appropriate healthcare services through remote health centres in the Kimberley region and are recognised locally and nationally as an advocate for the Kimberley Aboriginal health sector. KAMS Registered Training Organisation is committed to providing high quality VET training, creating a sustainable, enduring Aboriginal health workforce to ensure culturally safe services are delivered across the region.

Taylorweir Hairdresser & Barber training

Taylorweir has been training hairdressers and barbers for decades, proudly holding WA's title of the longest established private hairdressing and barbering RTO. Rewriting the rulebook on education, Taylorweir embraces innovative training methods to meet the diverse needs of its students. Its mission is to keep every student fully engaged and excited about learning as they embark on their hairdressing and barbering journey. Taylorweir is all about creating a vibrant community of hairdressing and barbering enthusiasts. It prioritises inclusivity, personalised attention, and access to cutting-edge industry trends. With small classes and a dedicated team, students enjoy a rewarding and fun learning journey.

Large Training Provider of the Year

Insight Training Group Australia Pty Ltd

With four campus locations in the Perth metropolitan area and 64 passionate staff employed across WA, Insight Training is a proud RTO specialising in providing consistently excellent training in high priority sectors. Insight Training delivers training that aims to secure employment for jobseekers and enhance skills for the existing workforce, with a focus on ensuring high engagement from students, satisfaction from employers, and collaboration with industry partners. Insight Training is not just about training, it is about community engagement, flexibility, personalised learning and the development and maintenance of an exceptional team of educators and support people.

MTA WA Automotive Institute of Technology

Driven by innovation, industry partnership and excellence, MTA WA Automotive Institute of Technology has become the premier trainer of light vehicle technicians in Western Australia.

Based in Balcatta, its membership comprises nearly 1,600 businesses, ranging from major automotive corporations to small and family-owned enterprises across the State. Representing the full automotive supply chain, its members span the retail, service, repairs, and maintenance sectors, providing a broad and diverse representation of the automotive industry. Its mission is to protect member interests while supporting, growing, and developing the automotive industry in WA. This extends to providing industry-leading training, with a particular focus on training the next generation of light vehicle automotive technicians.

North Metropolitan TAFE

North Metropolitan TAFE (NMT) is the largest TAFE College in WA, with nine campuses nestled in the vibrant northern suburbs of Perth. An array of over 350 courses spans 70 industries, ranging from Certificate I to Advanced Diploma qualifications, skills sets and short courses. As a vocational education and training leader, NMT distinguishes itself through strategic initiatives and continuous improvement. NMT's commitment ensures it not only meets but also anticipates the needs of students and employers, effectively preparing skilled professionals for the future workforce. NMT's dedication to supporting students extends through every aspect of its training, including mental health, inclusivity and accessibility.