The awards celebrate the best of WA apprentices within the residential building industry, and recognises the outstanding trade knowledge, quality workmanship, presentation, and trade school results of our future industry leaders.

Aaron (31), a mature age apprentice who previously worked in the fitness industry was also named Third year Apprentice of the Year and was recognised for his excellent skill level, can do attitude and eagerness to learn.

HIA WA Executive Director, Michael McGowan said, Aaron provided a great example of how people could enter the industry at different ages and with different backgrounds to find a perfect fit for their skills, interests, and ambitions. 

“The residential building industry provides so many opportunities, allows many entry points and gives everyone a chance to find a role that suits their skills and interests,” he said.

“The judges were impressed with Aaron’s dedication and passion for not only his trade, but the industry. He enjoys the hands-on nature of his trade, has a strong focus on safety and is well on the path to seeing his goal of running his own carpentry business come to fruition.”

Aaron’s employer John Given from ABN Training said he was an exceptional employee, with his keenness and hard-working nature setting a great example for the younger apprentices. 

HIA Executive Director Michael McGowan said in a period of severe trade shortages it was encouraging to see the next generation of building and construction industry coming through with such passion and enthusiasm for their trade and being recognised for their achievements.

“The last three years has seen more apprentices and trainees commence an apprenticeship in construction, manufacturing, electrical or mining & infrastructure than the previous five years, and the preconceptions of trades as a lesser pathway are being broken down as we see the success stories of those who are taking the opportunity with both hands.

“Apprenticeships provide an important and valuable pathway for many people and HIA are committed to supporting and nurturing those coming through the ranks,” he said.

The HIA Stratco WA Apprentice Awards recognise apprentices across trade disciplines and stage of training. Other outstanding winners on the night included:

“The high calibre of finalists this year demonstrated the qualities that will see them go on to have long and successful careers in this industry and set an incredible example for generations to come,” said Mr McGowan.

“It was particularly pleasing to see female carpentry apprentice Tanika Koutsoukis receive the Judges High Commendation award in recognition of her passion, attention to detail, and particular interest in safety and the environment.”

Figures from the recent Construction Training Fund Snapshot report the number of women in training has been increasing steadily over the last few years and increased by 15% in the construction, plumbing and services apprenticeships from 2022 to 2023.

“Tanika demonstrates the great values that women bring to our industry with her skill, enthusiasm and passion to contribute to building great quality homes and is an excellent role model for other young women in the industry,” said Mr McGowan.

“Successful apprenticeships rely heavily on the support, nurturing and training provided by the host trainer, and we congratulate Jethro Urwin from Apex WA Carpentry Solutions for his dedication - winning Apprentice host trainer of the year for the third consecutive year.

“The residential housing industry plays an important part in the development of our state, not only building homes, but providing an important training ground and range of exciting careers.

“HIA thank all the apprentice entrants and their host trainers, congratulate the winners and recognise the outstanding contribution that all make to the development of our industry,” concluded Mr McGowan.

Read more about the winners here.

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