The winners of the NSW Training Awards have taken part in a five-day Professional Development Week to become ambassadors of vocational education and training (VET) and inspire the next generation of learners.

As part of their training, the cohort honed their communication, social media and interview skills, and met with the NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan at NSW Parliament where they shared with him their VET journeys to date.

For 2024 NSW Apprentice of the Year, Rachael Pearson, it was important for her to set herself up for success in the long-term, while also living out her passions for playing and coaching rugby league.

Rachael gained her Certificate III in Engineering (Mechanical Trade) while also playing professionally for the St George Illawarra Dragons National Rugby League Women’s (NRLW) team.

“It’s been tough juggling a sporting and trades career, but I chose to do them both at the same time as I know that my sporting career is short-term, but a trade can set me up for a lifetime,” Rachael said.

“I hope that other women and professional athletes can learn from my experience and know that there are fulfilling and alternative pathways in VET.”

Since overcoming two strokes, multiple surgeries and lengthy recovery times while at school, Lachlan Carey was awarded the 2024 NSW Trainee of the Year for his work in early childhood education and care.

“I wish other young people knew that taking on a VET pathway gives you so much practical experience and confidence that you don’t get out of a textbook,” Lachlan said. “I have children in my care who live with ADHD, autism and many other different abilities, and I just love seeing all of their different personalities and characteristics.”

“I absolutely love what I do, and the opportunities VET has given me. The children think that I am the biggest kid out of all of them!”

Minister Whan congratulated the winners and wished them the best of luck at the national Australian Training Awards, which will be held on Friday 6 December in Canberra.

“Congratulations to each of you for winning your regional and state awards. Your commitment to undertake VET training and your dedication to learning is truly inspiring,” Minister Whan said.

“No matter the outcome, know that your hard work has already made you a star and NSW is very proud of you.”

The annual NSW Training Awards are conducted by Training Services to recognise outstanding achievement in the vocational education and training sector.

Winners compete against other states and territories for a national title at the Australian Training Awards which are being held in Canberra in December.

Congratulations to the seven winners of the 2024 NSW Training Awards:

· Rachael Pearson –NSW Apprentice of the Year

· Lachlan Carey – NSW Trainee of the Year

· Dascha Harrison – NSW School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year

· Baylun Williams-Pinkie –NSW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year

· Samantha Zannes – NSW Vocational Student of the Year

· Michael Pfeffer – NSW VET Trainer/Teacher of the Year

· Gabriella Ward – NSW VET in Schools Student of the Year