Parkes apprentice plumber Peter Kaden has been recognised for his outstanding work and study efforts after being named as Skillset's Gordon Hawkes Apprentice of the Year.
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Skillset offers a range of services across regional NSW including recruitment, apprenticeships and mentoring programs.
They recently held their annual awards for 2020, which celebrate the achievements of individuals, businesses and organisations who have excelled in employment, skills development and education programs across the Central West.
Peter, a mature aged plumbing apprentice, was recognised for his enthusiasm and motivation over the duration of his apprenticeship, aptitude for the trade and consistently working at a tradesman skill level, his commitment to his community and his dedication to skills development by undertaking further training in his trade.
Peter has been hosted during his four year apprenticeship by Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) in Parkes and in addition to his normal on-the-job training has been undertaking his Certificate IV in Plumbing with TAFE at night to garner more skills in his trade to support his knowledge when becomes a qualified tradesman.
Peter started his career out of school in the Defence Force for 13 years before embarking on a decision to seek more job satisfaction and career security for himself. Peter's commitment to his training while supporting his family as a mature aged apprentice is a testament to his exemplary work ethic and dedication.
"As an ex-Defence Force veteran and matured aged apprentice, I really appreciated the opportunity and support to start a new career.
"I hope this encourages more businesses to consider employing mature aged apprentices and veterans," said Peter.
Matt Gersbach, maintenance supervisor for WNSWLHD, and Peter's direct supervisor, reflected on when Peter first came on board as an apprentice.
"After Peter had been offered the apprenticeship, I remember asking him what he hoped to achieve out of it; to which he replied that he wanted to win Apprentice of the Year, and we are so thrilled that he has achieved his goal."
Skillset CEO Craig Randazzo congratulated all the winners and commended them on their commitment to skill and career development.
"Even though COVID-19 has posed challenges for holding our event in its normal format, we still wanted to recognise the achievements of our apprentices, trainees and partnering organisations.
"It is gratifying to see these outstanding results and the dedication shown for developing skills and jobs for a sustainable future for the Central West," Mr Randazzo said.
