WA tradie crowned apprentice of the year

After searching high and low across the western state, one superstar tradie has emerged victorious as the HIA’s Apprentice of the Year. 

Mature-aged apprentice Aaron Scott took home the top trophy last week during the annual Housing Industry Association’s (HIA) apprentice awards, which recognise tradies efforts from all over the residential building sector. 

Previously working in the fitness industry, Scott managed to edge out the stiff competition with his incredible industry skills, including his outstanding trade knowledge, quality workmanship, presentation, and trade school results throughout his three years on the job. 

But according to the judges and his employer John Given from ABN training, what really secured Scott the win was his “can do attitude”, eagerness to learn and his hard-working nature that set a great example for his younger peers. 

HIA WA Executive Director Michael McGowan said the 31-year-old was the prime example of how Aussies could enter the industry at any age and from any background and find a “perfect fit” for their skills.  

“The residential building industry provides so many opportunities, allows many entry points and gives everyone a chance to find a role that suits their skills and interests,” he said.

“The judges were impressed with Aaron’s dedication and passion for not only his trade, but the industry. He enjoys the hands-on nature of his trade, has a strong focus on safety and is well on the path to seeing his goal of running his own carpentry business come to fruition.”

McGowan added that it was encouraging to see the next generation of the construction industry coming in with “such passion and enthusiasm for the trade” during a time of severe tradie shortages. 

“The last three years has seen more apprentices and trainees commence an apprenticeship in construction, manufacturing, electrical or mining & infrastructure than the previous five years, and the preconceptions of trades as a lesser pathway are being broken down as we see the success stories of those who are taking the opportunity with both hands,” he said. 

“Apprenticeships provide an important and valuable pathway for many people and HIA are committed to supporting and nurturing those coming through the ranks.”

Award winners 

But Scott wasn’t alone up on stage. The awards recognised apprentices from all over the residential building industry in all stages of training. Other outstanding winners on the night included:

With only a few awards up for grabs, taking home a trophy was no small feat. According to McGowan, all of this year’s finalists welded some of the highest-calibre skills and training the industry has seen in their time on the tools. 

He also applauded carpentry apprentice Tanika Koutsoukis for receiving a high commendation from the judges with hopes her passion, attention to detail and particular interest in safety and the environment would spur more woman to seek out a career in construction. 

“Tanika demonstrates the great values that women bring to our industry with her skill, enthusiasm and passion to contribute to building great quality homes and is an excellent role model for other young women in the industry,” said Mr McGowan.

“The residential housing industry plays an important part in the development of our state, not only building homes, but providing an important training ground and range of exciting careers.

“HIA thank all the apprentice entrants and their host trainers, congratulate the winners and recognise the outstanding contribution that all make to the development of our industry.”