Nominations are open for the 2024 Capricorn Rising Stars awards programme. More than $27,000 of shared cash and prizes is on offer for the top five finalists, overall winner and nominating Capricorn member workshops.
The competition is open to all types of workshops and disciplines, from panel and fabrication to auto-electrical, general mechanical, heavy diesel and more.
“Encouraging and acknowledging future leaders is an important part of growing and supporting the automotive industry,” said David Fraser, Capricorn Group CEO. “We know that finding and keeping apprentices is one of the big challenges for the industry. By celebrating apprentices, we hope to encourage more to join and stay in the industry.”
Chelsea Bowers, the 2023 Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year, encouraged apprentices to consider applying for the 2023 programme.
“Absolutely just go for it. I found that the opportunities I had from getting to the finalist stage and being in the top five finalists were huge for my pathway, and just as valuable as winning,” she said.
The awards programme allows member automotive workshops and repair centres to recognise, reward and retain apprentices for their ongoing effort and dedication. “A nomination to Capricorn Rising Stars will not only benefit the individual, but the whole team as it promotes and embeds a positive workshop culture which rewards commitment and passion,” added Capricorn.
The competition also seeks to encourage new talent to join the industry, generating more qualified automotive repairers.
Entries close on 30 April 2024. Capricorn will announce the overall winner in September 2024, with all top five finalists announced in August.