Vocational victories

Three vocational students have been named finalists in this year’s WA Training Awards.

The trio, Taya Sawtel, Ffion Henderson, and Zaine Cuthbert, are among 41 finalists, having demonstrated exceptional dedication and excellence in their respective vocational pathways. 

Submissions were received from applicants training in a diverse range of industries including agriculture, automotive and electrical, creative industries, engineering, health and community services, information technology and cyber security, and hospitality.   

Here is some about our finalists: 

Taya Sawtel - School-based Apprentice of the Year finalist 

Taya is a student from Hedland Senior High School who has always been fascinated by rail infrastructure.  

Growing up in the mining town of Port Hedland, Taya was inspired by her parents' successful careers in the industry. Determined to follow in their footsteps, she embarked on a school-based traineeship with BHP, where she is completing a Certificate II in Rail Infrastructure. 

Through this traineeship, Taya has gained invaluable hands-on experience, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.  

Ffion Henderson - School-based Apprentice of the Year finalist 

Ffion is from Melville Senior High School and has had a passion for marine biology since childhood. Her early volunteer work at a turtle sanctuary in the Perhentian Islands, Malaysia, cemented her decision to pursue a marine-based career.  

Encouraged by her school’s VET coordinator, Ffion undertook a school-based traineeship in Workplace Skills and has completed a Certificate II in Aquaculture and a Certificate IV in Marine Biology. She made history by securing the first-ever traineeship position with Rottnest Express and is the youngest person to work on their boats.  

Despite facing challenges due to her dyslexia, Ffion's hands-on experience has bolstered her confidence and skill set, igniting her passion for marine tourism and marine engineering. 

Zaine Cuthbert - Vocational Student of the Year finalist 

Zaine studies at the Western Australia College of Agriculture - Narrogin, and has his sights set on a career in the agricultural sector.  

Pursuing his dream job as an agronomist, Zaine is currently studying a Certificate III in Agriculture. His training has equipped him with practical skills and essential attributes, such as resilience, adaptability, and teamwork.  

His passion for agriculture drives him to continuously expand his knowledge and skills, ensuring a bright future in the industry. 

 

The winners of the WA Training Awards will be announced at a gala event in September.  

Individual recipients take home a $3,000 cash prize and become ambassadors for Western Australia's vocational training sector. Following their win, they 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. 

Regardless of the outcome, Taya, Ffion, and Zaine have already made remarkable strides in their careers, setting an inspiring example for their peers. 

Congratulations to all the finalists, and best of luck in the upcoming awards! 

For more information, visit the Department of Training and Workforce Development website.