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Building Futures SA Top Apprentices Honoured at 2025 HIA Apprentice Awards

Media release

Building Futures SA Top Apprentices Honoured at 2025 HIA Apprentice Awards

Media release
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) has proudly recognised South Australia’s most promising young talent at the 2025 HIA South Australian Apprentice Awards, held at the National Wine Centre of Australia in Adelaide on Friday night.

The event highlighted the dedication, skill and bright future of the state’s next generation of tradespeople.

Winners were announced across five categories — from first through to fourth year, along with the Training in Excellence Award — with each recipient now progressing as a finalist for the 2025 HIA South Australian Apprentice of the Year, to be announced at the HIA SA Housing Awards later this year.

2025 Apprentice Award Winners

  • First Year Apprentice of the Year – Eliza Wegner
    Partnered by Stratco
    Employed by HIA Apprentices and hosted by Steel Frame Erectors, Eliza began her carpentry apprenticeship during her SACE studies, balancing school and hands-on experience. Inspired by her father’s career, she is already pursuing her Certificate IV in Building and Construction, showing leadership, adaptability and a strong commitment to her trade.
  • Second Year Apprentice of the Year – William May
    Partnered by ATEC
    Employed and hosted by Yorke Building Co, William has stood out as a hardworking and enthusiastic apprentice. His eagerness to learn, adaptability and technical ability make him a highly valued team member with a promising career ahead.
  • Third Year Apprentice of the Year – Angus McKay
    Partnered by MAS National
    Employed and hosted by Broadway Building Co, Angus brings prior experience from a completed landscape construction apprenticeship. With precision, professionalism and a commitment to continuous improvement, he has set a benchmark of excellence for his peers.
  • Fourth Year Apprentice of the Year – Ben Colliver
    Partnered by HIA Insurance Services
    Employed and hosted by Yorke Building Co, Ben has excelled across all aspects of carpentry and general building. His strong work ethic, reliability and initiative on-site have earned him high praise and respect from colleagues and supervisors alike.
  • Training in Excellence Award – Jesse Slager
    Partnered by TAFE SA

    Employed by HIA Apprentices and hosted by B & B Burnett, Jesse has demonstrated outstanding commitment and initiative. Alongside his Certificate III in Carpentry, he has undertaken additional contracting training, showcasing his drive to continually expand his skills and contribute to the industry.

“These winners represent the skill, determination and leadership qualities that will shape the future of South Australia’s construction industry,” said HIA South Australian Executive Director, Stephen Knight. 

“Each has shown the commitment and resilience that makes our trade workforce so highly regarded. Their stories remind us that apprenticeships are not just a pathway into the building industry — they are a springboard to leadership, business ownership, and lifelong careers.

“HIA is proud to support them as they continue their journey, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements again as finalists for Apprentice of the Year at our Housing Awards later this year.”

The HIA South Australian Apprentice Awards are an important showcase of the career pathways and opportunities available through apprenticeships in the construction sector.
Images and further comments available upon request.

View all award winners

For more information please contact:

Stephen Knight

Executive Director - South Australia
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