Construction students have taken out the top two prizes at The Gordon TAFE’s 2020 Awards for Excellence on Wednesday night.
Diploma of Building and Construction student Laura McCauley won Student of the Year for outstanding achievement in her studies.
“I chose to pursue a career in the construction industry to be involved in an ever-growing and changing industry where there is a variety of work available,” she said.
“After looking into possible job avenues I found that The Gordon offered a 12-month course that gave me the certification to get an entry-level job as a site supervisor or project manager.”
Locally-employed joiner Tim Gliszczynski won Apprentice of the Year after completing Certificate III in Joinery at The Gordon
“From an early age I’ve wanted to work with my hands,” he said.
“Going into a trade was always going to be the natural choice so when I was presented the opportunity for an apprenticeship in joinery with West Coast Windows, I went for it.”
The Gordon nominated Ms McCauley and Mr Gliszczynski for the 2020 Victorian Training Awards following their win.
The awards recognise students who have attained the highest standards and displayed outstanding commitment to training, community involvement and leadership.
“Their commitment is obvious,” said Joe Ormeno, The Gordon’s chief executive officer.
“The awards are a fantastic means for us to recognise and reward the efforts of our students.
“However what is more rewarding for us is watching them enter the workforce and pursue a career they’re so passionate about.”
In 2019 more than more than 13,900 people studied at The Gordon including more than 3900 apprentices and trainees.
Award winners:
Hairdressing Apprentice – Anna Knight
Licensed Trades Apprentice – Lewis Mansfield
School Based Apprentice/Trainee Excellence – Sarah Knight
Art and Design Excellence – Evie Daemen
Business & Technology Excellence – Hayley Johnson
Community Services Excellence – Julia Vaughan
Construction Excellence – Claire O’Callaghan
Tourism Excellence – Abby MacGillivray
Environmental Excellence – Jordan Tartaglia
Hair & Beauty Excellence – Monyean Foote
Health & Science Excellence – Amy Banner
International Student of the Year – Aya Assaf
VCE/VET in Schools Excellence – Tahlia Grigg
Community Spirit Award – Kylie Petersen
Lifelong Learning Award – Mellisa Sharrad
