Women dominate 2023 NSW Training Awards

Women claimed all individual student awards on offer at the 2023 NSW Training Awards. Mike Morrow reports.

The winners of the 2023 NSW Training Awards have been announced.

Women have dominated the 2023 NSW Training Awards, showcasing their exceptional achievements in a groundbreaking year in vocational education and training (VET).

Women claimed all individual student awards on offer, marking a significant shift in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Of the seven female winners, six are under the age of 25, and three of the women are just 18 years old.

NSW Deputy Premier, Minister for Skills, and Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car, praised all involved.

“Our winners have gone above and beyond in their fields and are showcasing the boundless opportunities vocational education and training can offer,” she said.

“These amazing women are challenging the notion of male-dominated trades and are spearheading the way for other women to enter non-traditional industries.”

Crookwell’s Caroline Morris won Apprentice of the Year for her efforts in the Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade.

“I wanted to work with my hands, stay living regionally, and develop a future-proof career. An apprenticeship achieved all three goals,” Caroline said.

“I want to show young people, especially young girls, that there are great opportunities available for them in trades. Being trade-qualified opens doors for everyone.”

Two women holding certificates and trophies. Two women holding certificates and trophies.
Image: Left: 2023 Trainee of the Year Bridie Searle. Right: 2023 Apprentice of the Year Caroline Morris. Photos: Salty Dingo

Balmain’s Bridie Searle was named Trainee of the Year for her work in the maritime industry, despite having no prior industry experience.

Bridie’s journey started with a passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) during high school, which led her to enrol in and excel in Certificate IV in Project Management Practice and she now manages million-dollar maritime projects.

“I’ve always been a hands-on learner. The balance of theory and practical work offers an unmatched training program - it was pivotal to my success,” she said.

“When I reflect on the person and professional I’ve become during this traineeship, it fills me with pride. It’s been fantastic and I’ve picked up so many skills that are transferable across multiple roles and industries.”

The VET industry plays a crucial role in driving the state’s economy, supporting priority sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and engineering. Approximately one million learners participate in VET programs to upskill and contribute to these vital industries annually.

The 2023 NSW Training Awards celebrated winners’ achievements and the power of vocational education and training to transform lives and industries.

Three men posing for a photo in front of purple balloons. One man is holding a certificate, another a trophy. Three men posing for a photo in front of purple balloons. One man is holding a certificate, another a trophy.
Image: Clint Giddings (2022 Winner Teacher/Trainer of the Year) and Colin Taranto (2023 winner VET Trainer/Teacher of the Year) with NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar. Photo: Salty Dingo

2023 NSW Training Awards winners - individuals

Award Category Winner Qualification Suburb

Vocational

Tracie Wood

Diploma of Project Management

Lake Innes

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander

Aaliyah Morley

Certificate III in School-Based Education Support

Westdale

VET in Schools

Elizabeth King

Certificate III in Health Services Assistance

Somerton

School-Based Apprentice/Trainee

Molly Smith

Certificate III in Health Services Assistance

Hillvue

VET Trainer/Teacher

Colin Taranto

Timber System Design / Timber Frame or Truss Manufacture

Harrington

Trainee

Bridie Searle

Certificate IV in Project Management Practice

Balmain

Apprentice

Caroline Morris

Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade

Crookwell

Women in Trades

Celina Pellett

Certificate III in Agriculture (Dairy Production)

Hunter and Central Coast

2023 NSW Training Awards winners - organisations

Award Category Winner

Industry Collaboration Award

Coates Hire and Local Government NSW

Small Employer of the Year

Flow Smart Pty Ltd

Large Employer of the Year

Transdev Australasia Pty Ltd

Small Training Provider of the Year

Fireground Pty Ltd

Large Training Provider of the Year

Enterprise & Training Company

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