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2013
Winner
Victoria

Growing up on a vineyard, 19 year old Mildura local Joel Schwarz had always been fascinated with the magnitude and complexities of agricultural machinery.

Qualification: Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical Technology

Employer: Sunrise Ag. (Wheat Ridge Pty Ltd)

Training Provider: SuniTAFE

School: Mildura Senior College

Growing up on a vineyard, 19 year old Mildura local Joel Schwarz had always been fascinated with the magnitude and complexities of agricultural machinery.

As he grew up, he witnessed various mechanics working on the equipment and began to envision his future career in the industry. Not wishing to give up his secondary school studies early, but wanting a head start on his career, he commenced an Australian School-based Apprenticeship in Automotive Mechanical Technology.

Joel achieved such outstanding results while combining his college studies with on and off the job training that he was awarded the Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year at the 2013 Australian Training Awards.

The award recognises the most outstanding Australian School-based Apprentice in Australia undertaking a Certificate III or above qualification.

“The Australian Training Awards have been amazing.

“The journey from applying earlier in the year, to being named Victorian School-based Apprentice of the Year and then to experience the whole Australian Training Awards finalist week of networking and professional development has been a really memorable experience.”

The 19-year-old has two more years left of his Australian Apprenticeship, and learns skills covering a large range of farm equipment, including combine harvesters, broad acre tractors, hoes, slashers and seeding implements.

He has a great understanding of his industry and emerging trends and displays maturity and insight in his chosen pathway.

“An Australian School-based Apprenticeship is a really good taster, and you are earning and learning.

“It is not a full-on commitment, you can still be doing your school as well – if you have the passion for it, just get in and have a go.”

Joel would like to complete the Certificate IV in Automotive to broaden his knowledge and focus on the structure and science of an engine. In the long term, Joel hopes to open his own business.

Recently, Joel was appointed an Australian Apprenticeships Ambassador for the Australian Government. 

Download the Australian Training Awards fact sheet on Joel's achievements. Watch the video of Joel after receiving the award.