Liam Watt, a third-year apprentice at McCarthy Panel Works in Mackay, has been named a finalist for the 2023 MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year award.
According to the MTAQ, the top honour will be presented to an MTA Institute apprentice who has demonstrated a dedication to learning while performing “above and beyond” expectations throughout their apprenticeship journey.
The 2023 Apprentice of the Year, to be named at the annual Industry Awards Gala event at the W Hotel in Brisbane on 11 November, will take home a Milwaukee Tool 218-piece automotive starter toolkit A1, while runners-up will receive a Milwaukee Tool 3/8-inch drive 56-piece ratchet & socket set.
The 2023 winner will also receive an all-expenses paid opportunity to spend a week in Melbourne with the Penrite Racing Team undertaking work experience, courtesy of Gates Australia.
“The aptitude and dedication to the trade displayed by the 12 individuals recognised for this award is inspiring to see and leaves me comfortable knowing the future of our industry is in good hands,” said Marcello Riotto, MTA Institute General Manager. “The cohort represents businesses from all corners of the state and a wide range of automotive sectors, and shows that the commitment to building skills for the future is evident across regional and metropolitan Queensland.
“With the automotive industry continuing to experience severe skills shortages, it is incredibly important that we highlight the outstanding achievements of the best and brightest apprentices, who are forging their way forward and standing out as role models to the future generation of automotive professionals.
“I congratulate all apprentices on their achievements to this point and look forward to celebrating with them at the Industry Awards Gala in November.”