Celebrating 30 Years of Training Excellence: Highlights from the Australian Training Awards

Last week, our CEO Paul Walsh and our General Manager for Policy, Joshua Rayner, attended the Australian Training Awards, an event dedicated to celebrating excellence in vocational education and training (VET). The night was filled with inspiring stories and recognition of outstanding achievements by students, providers, trainers, and employers across the sector.

Innovation in VET Award

We are thrilled to announce that Airservices Australia was awarded the Innovation in VET Award. Airservices Australia’s innovative approach to training leverages cutting-edge technology and fosters a culture of continuous learning, ensuring their workforce is prepared to meet the evolving demands of the aviation industry. This recognition is well-deserved, and we are proud to celebrate their success.

We would also like to make some honourable mentions:

The late Professor Peter Noonan was posthumously awarded the Outstanding Achievement in the VET and Skills Sector Award. This honour recognises his lifelong contributions to the field. Professor Noonan was a visionary in VET policy development, whose work has left a lasting impact on education and workforce training in Australia. His award was accepted by his family, which is an honour in itself as it shows his commitment to the industry and the respect he garnered across all levels of his life.

Another highlight of the evening was Vanessa Williams, a finalist who completed her Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations. Vanessa’s journey showcases her determination and passion for mastering the complexities of supply chain management. After changing careers to join the industry, her achievements stand as a shining example of the opportunities provided through VET programs.

The coveted title of Australian Apprentice of the Year was awarded to Matthew Tyquin, who completed his Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher). Although not our industry, Matthew’s exceptional skills and commitment to his craft have set a benchmark for apprentices across the nation. His dedication to excellence highlights the vital role apprentices play in strengthening Australian industries.

While these are just a few highlights, the Australian Training Awards showcased the achievements of numerous winners and finalists who are shaping the future of vocational education and training in Australia. Each story is a testament to the transformative power of education and training.

Congratulations to all the winners and finalists for their dedication and impact. Here’s to another year of celebrating excellence in VET!