Three Geelong apprentices have been honoured for their achievements at the 2022 Master Builders Victoria Regional Apprentice of the Year Awards.
Jack Purcell was awarded the Geelong Apprentice of the Year Future Builder award, Brock Smith received the Geelong Apprentice of the Year Craftsperson Award and Emily Button won the Geelong Chairperson’s Award.
The awards celebrated the Geelong region’s building and construction apprentices and their achievements over their careers and the 2021 academic year.
Each of the apprentices was nominated by their training provider and then went through a judging process, where they were assessed on their preparation and presentation, work experience, knowledge and career plans, attitude on and about the job, and industry representation.
Apprentice builder Jack Purcell was lauded by the judges for his “ambitions for the future”, which included becoming a registered builder and starting his own business.
The apprentice got a taste for building homes through his father and is now employed by MJ Rogers Building.
“Jack is interested in broadening his knowledge and learning more about the business side of his trade,” the judges said.
“Jack is extremely driven in his apprenticeship and is excited for what the future holds.”
Joinery apprentice Brock Smith was recognised for his technical skill, which he had picked up quickly in his new career.
“With an eye for detail, Brock enjoys the variation and creativity joinery offers,” the judges said.
“He loves having to adapt to different worksite requirements and use his problem-solving skills during these times.
“Brock’s hope for the future is to continue to learn the business aspect of his trade and explore starting his own company later down the track.”
Geelong Chairperson’s Award recipient Emily Button was also recognised for her work as an apprentice builder after finishing school.
Working with her employer, PB Builds, the judges said Emily had taken a shine to building specialty homes for individuals in need.
“Finding great reward in her job, Emily loves to see individuals use their homes which she has assisted in building,” the judges said.
“Having a portfolio including ramps and aided bathrooms, Emily has truly found joy in each of her projects.
“Emily is proud of her development over her apprentice journey, hoping to continue progressing her career.”
