Carpentry apprentice Aaron Sedgwick (above left) from Smeaton was named the Master Builders Ballarat Section Apprentice of the Year at the Mercure Hotel and Convention Centre in Ballarat last night before an audience of over 215.

Aaron was one of a pair of apprentices from the Ballarat region to be recognised for their dedication, skill and hard work.

The other winner on the night was Chairman’s Award winner Mitchell Gervasoni (above right) from Miners Rest.

Master Builders’ Careers Manager Ingrid Mountford said this year’s nominees demonstrated exceptional determination, focus and maturity in building their careers, and was pleased to note this annual event had drawn 30 per cent more people than last year.

“Apprentices have to work very hard for this recognition, so there is a great deal of excitement that builds up when they make it this far,” she said. “They are genuinely excited about the direction of their career.”

“Aaron has demonstrated his serious enjoyment of teaching by mentoring younger apprentices– showing them the ropes of his favorite construction tasks, like framing and trusses,” Mountford said. “He also demonstrates an enterprising attitude by learning the business side of things, such as estimating construction projects.”

Chairman’s Award winner Mitchell found his apprenticeship opportunity thanks to a listing posted at his mother’s hairdressing salon. Since that moment his young career has taken shape and his enthusiasm for building and craftsmanship has bloomed.

“Mitchell’s affinity for teamwork and leadership has led him to mentor third-year apprentices and take charge by supervising the construction site while his boss was away tending to his newborn.

Master Builders Chief Executive Officer Radley de Silva emphasised that apprentices are essential to Victoria’s building industry.

“We need a skilled workforce in the building and construction industry that will continue to provide the homes and infrastructure Victoria needs.

“Apprentices help to build our communities,” Mr de Silva said. “Acknowledging their hard work and dedication encourages apprentices across Victoria to continue their career path to achieve bigger and greater things in our industry.”

Regional winners are selected after an interview with a panel of three judges. Once awarded, they will be invited to attend the State Apprentice of the Year Awards on 11 May in Melbourne where the overall winners will be announced.