Vocational Student of the Year
Supported by
NSW Skills Board
The NSW Skills Board warmly congratulates the exceptional finalists in the 2023 NSW Training Awards. Your dedication and hard work in your studies are impressive and we are very pleased to join with all attendees tonight in celebrating your achievements.
The NSW Skills Board provides strategic and industry-informed advice to the Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education and the NSW Government. Our focus lies in understanding and advising on the training and skills development needs of people, employers and industries across the state.
Board members bring a range of skills and a diversity of experience that spans industries including digital and technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services, construction and infrastructure, and disability support. Members bring a depth of legal, governance, education and training, workforce development, management and business operations experience to the advice we deliver to the Minister.
In our work, we speak and consult with employers – listening to their feedback and perspectives on education, training, skills and workforce development in NSW. We value the feedback we receive, as it helps us enhance the vocational education and training system to support building a skilled and adaptable workforce.
But we are always interested in the perspectives of learners in relation to their experiences in vocational education and training. Your achievements and journeys are essential to us, as they guide us in improving the learning experience and bolstering employment outcomes in NSW.
Once again, we congratulate all the finalists of this year's Awards and wish you a delightful evening ahead. Your accomplishments are a testament to the value of vocational education and training, and we are excited to witness the positive impact you will make in your respective fields.
Peter Hardy
Qualification
Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building)
Trained by
TAFE NSW
Employed by
DMC Building Group Pty Ltd
Region
Central & Northern Sydney Region
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Peter Hardy has lofty dreams. “It’s always been one of my dreams to be able to build my own house and be a builder like my grandfather,” says Peter.
Crediting VET with being the best part of his schooling experience, he was certain that this was the pathway for him, pursuing an Apprenticeship in Carpentry before tackling his Certificate IV in Building and Construction.
Now, with his qualifications complete, Peter has his own teaching ambitions. “Another of my goals is to complete a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment so I can become a VET teacher,” he says. “Vocational education offers so many opportunities to our country and it has led to so much growth for me, both professionally and personally.”
And there’s no greater validation of self-growth than achieving your dreams. “I took my 97-year-old grandfather to a site that was due for handover and he appreciated every detail. It was my greatest achievement.”
Nicholas Luttrell
Qualification
Diploma of Paralegal Services
Trained by
Australian Careers Business College
Employed by
Sparke Helmore Lawyers
Region
Southern & South Western Sydney Region
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Keen to gain a competitive edge in the legal industry, Nicholas Luttrell pursued a vocational pathway after completing high school. While university was a goal, he prioritised a Diploma of Paralegal Services, which helped him land his job at a top-tier law firm.
Nicholas relished the course content, getting into a rhythm balancing study, a job and work placement. His hard work paid off as he was offered a Junior Legal Assistant role at the legal firm hosting his training.
And that wasn’t the only reward – he’s currently studying a Bachelor of Laws/Communications at university. “I wouldn’t have received the offer if it weren’t for my studies outside of the HSC.”
As he continues to progress in his dream career, Nicholas speaks glowingly about the impact of VET. “The Diploma has enhanced my understanding of the legal industry and has intensified my passion for the law while giving me a clearer view of the benefits of VET.”
Tracie Wood
Qualification
Diploma of Project Management
Trained by
BSI Learning
Employed by
Department of Communities and Justice
Region
North Coast & Mid North Coast Region
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Tracie Wood is passionate about helping people. In her career supporting offenders reintegrate into the community, she wanted to make an even greater impact, so she took on a Diploma of Project Management.
While doing her Diploma, Tracie was working as part of a team exploring ways digital technology could extend the reach of therapeutic services and she jumped at the chance to apply for a permanent position. “I was able to apply my learnings to the suitability assessment task as well as my responses to interview questions,” says Tracie. “I was absolutely delighted when I secured the role.”
Now, Tracie is studying a Bachelor of Criminal Justice while remaining focused on her role as Project Coordinator within the Innovation and Technology team.
And she’s also keen to inspire others to consider vocational pathways. “By completing my Diploma of Project Management, I’ve gained new skills, friends, confidence and I’ve progressed my career, too.”