Metropolitan regional final

For outstanding achievement in VET by a Queensland business with 99 or fewer full-time equivalent employees.

Finalists

Abrik	CRA Construction	Perci Salon
Abrik has created an environment where emerging tradespeople can explore multiple career pathways across plumbing, roofing and carpentry. Practical learning, structured development opportunities and strong workplace support enable employees to build versatile skillsets and industry confidence. This commitment to nurturing talent continues to drive growth across the business and the trades sector.	CRA Construction is a plastering and carpentry contractor delivering wall and ceiling systems across high-end architectural homes and commercial construction projects throughout South East Queensland. Exposure to diverse construction environments allows team members to develop technical capability while building problem-solving and leadership skills. A culture of learning has played an important role in the company's rapid growth and reputation for excellence.	Perci Salon has built a reputation for cultivating creativity through education making training inclusive and flexible supporting diverse learning styles and career stages. Emerging stylists receive personalised coaching in advanced colouring, cutting and styling techniques while being encouraged to develop their own artistic identity. By combining technical training with creative expression, Perci Salon is helping shape the future of the hairdressing profession.

For outstanding achievement in VET by a Queensland business with 100 or more full-time equivalent employees.

Sponsor

Mas National, part of the IntoWork Group, has delivered employment and apprenticeship support services across Australia for over 25 years. As a trusted Apprentice Connect Provider, Mas partners with stakeholders nationwide to facilitate sign-ups, mentoring, and workforce participation, offering personalised support to job seekers, employers, businesses, and community organisations.

Finalists

Flight Centre Travel Group	RetireAustralia	The Drake Group
Flight Centre Travel Group has established a global reputation for developing talent through learning, leadership and career progression opportunities. Employees are empowered to build skills across customer service, sales, technology and business operations while benefiting from a culture that values growth and innovation. This investment in people continues to support the organisation's success both locally and internationally.	RetireAustralia is nurturing the future aged care and retirement living workforce through a strong focus on employee learning and wellbeing. Training programs support the development of technical skills, customer care expertise and leadership capability, helping employees deliver exceptional experiences for residents. A people-first approach to workforce development remains central to the organisation's success.	The Drake Group is a leading Australian manufacturer in the heavy vehicle industry, recognised for delivering innovative, high-quality heavy haulage trailers. With workforce solutions at the core of its business, they understand the value of developing people. Employees are supported through professional development, leadership training and industry-specific learning opportunities that encourage career progression and adaptability.

For outstanding assistance to Queenslanders to gain the skills, experience and VET qualifications required to enter and stay in the workplace, by a community-based not-for-profit organisation.

Finalists

Enterprise & Training Company (ETC) Program: Health and Hospitals Program	Five Bridges Program: Standing Strong – Security for Your Future	Queensland Farmers' Federation (QFF) Program: SmartAg Queensland
ETC's Health and Hospitals Program creates pathways into one of Australia's fastest-growing sectors. Through industry engagement, practical training and employment preparation, participants develop the skills, confidence and knowledge required to pursue careers within healthcare and hospital environments.	Standing Strong – Security for Your Future supports individuals to build resilience, confidence and employment readiness through tailored training and mentoring. By helping participants overcome barriers and develop practical workplace skills, Five Bridges creates pathways to meaningful employment and long-term career success.	SmartAg Queensland is QFF’s flagship workforce development initiative, improving access to practical, industry-relevant training for primary producers and their workforce. The program strengthens business capability through education, planning and professional development. By providing practical tools and industry knowledge, the initiative helps farm businesses adapt to change, improve sustainability and build resilience.

For outstanding achievement by a teacher or trainer providing nationally recognised training to students at, or in partnership with, a training provider.

Sponsor

Apprenticeship Support Australia helps raise apprenticeship commencement and completion rates by supporting employers and apprentices. With over 75 years of experience, they provide training advice, assist with government funding, recruitment, and offer ongoing coaching and mentoring. Services are delivered nationwide.

Finalists

Nigel Gorman Aussie Painters Network	Andrea Smith Queensland College of Music	Tal Taylor TAFE Queensland
Nigel is the Founder of Aussie Painters Network which reaches over 12,000 industry members, publishes a national magazine and supports approximately 150 apprentices from Stanthorpe to Cairns.  Seeing a need for better skilling, Nigel established a purpose-built facility in Brisbane and a mobile training unit for regional areas, providing hands-on support and mentoring. Roughly 30% of his cohort are women, well above industry average, and his Women in Painting initiative earned him the inaugural NAWIC National Male Ally of the Year Award in 2025.	Andrea has prepared musicians for the realities of the industry for over 30 years. As the architect of Industry Week at Queensland College of Music, she connects more than 100 students with industry guests, securing gigs, copyright guidance, contract advice and creative collaborations. Her programs achieve a 98% completion rate and her graduates include ARIA Award winners Ball Park Music, Thelma Plum and The Chats. In late 2025, Andrea joined the board of CrewCare, actively contributing to ongoing development in live music production.	Tal is a dedicated vocational educator committed to equipping students for careers in applied science. Addressing the gap between traditional teaching and modern laboratory practices, Tal designed a simulated Laboratory Information Management System to replicate professional workflows. This hands-on innovation enables students to process specimens, manage data, and generate compliant labels, building confidence and precision. By creating inclusive, multimodal resources and leveraging digital tools, Tal ensures accessible learning. Her active industry engagement keeps her teaching authentic, empowering graduates to thrive in contemporary laboratory environments.

For outstanding achievement in overcoming a significant barrier or disadvantage to effectively participate in VET.

Sponsor

Fine Line Commercial is a commercial interiors contractor specialising in ceilings and partitions, carpentry and joinery. Delivering projects across the health, education, government, commercial office and premium development sectors, Fine Line Commercial recognises that the future of their industry depends on investing in the next generation of skilled tradespeople. They are passionate about creating meaningful apprenticeship opportunities, providing hands-on training, experienced mentorship and exposure to some of Queensland's most significant commercial construction projects.

Finalists

Sophie Hill Qualification: Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care Registered Training Organisation: KKTC Education Employer: Story House Early Learning	Krystal Marie Lunny Qualification: Certificate III in Hairdressing Registered Training Organisation: Matters in Gray Employer: Epic Hair Designs	Pooja Lakshmi Suresh Babu Qualification: Certificate I in Workplace Skills Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)
Rather than waiting for the right opportunity, Sophie created it herself, changing schools in Year 11 to access stronger VET opportunities and independently organising her own traineeship. Completing a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care within 20 months despite managing a learning challenge, Sophie is now progressing into a Diploma while remaining employed at the same centre that hired her on placement. Currently completing numerous qualifications simultaneously, Sophie's long-term goal is primary school teaching, with a potential return to VET education in the future.	Overcoming significant personal adversity and physical challenges, Krystal arrived at her hairdressing apprenticeship with extraordinary determination and a near two-decade dream to fulfil. Completing a hairdressing trade, Krystal built technical skills and professional confidence while rebuilding stability for her 3 daughters. Now facing new physical limitations, Krystal is already planning the next chapter, moving into training and mentoring, with a passion for supporting apprentices who need someone to believe in them the way others believed in her.	Having built a successful career in India before migrating to Australia, Pooja faced significant barriers re-entering the workforce in a new country. Her traineeship provided the education, experience and industry context needed to make the transition. Selected through a competitive process during placement, Pooja is now a Projects Officer at Refugee and Immigration Legal Service (RAILS) and building a startup business connecting IT experts with community organisations. An inspiring advocate for skilled migrants and women from under-represented backgrounds, Pooja is already paying it forward.

For outstanding achievement by a Queensland school-based apprentice or trainee.

Sponsor

One of the core values at Hungry Jack’s is ‘Best People’. Hungry Jack’s is committed to supporting the development and training of people in the business and do this through unleashing people power with the commitment to training and development for everyone. Hungry Jacks are proud to sponsor the Queensland Training Awards 2026 in recognition that the power of learning, education, training and developing of skills builds employee confidence, supports their personal growth and leads to strong business and personal outcomes.

Finalists

Krystal Clayton Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance School: Bundamba State Secondary College Registered Training Organisation: Connect 'n' Grow Employer: West Moreton Health – Ipswich Hospital	Elizabeth Harvey Qualification: Certificate III in Individual Support School: Ipswich Girls Grammar School Registered Training Organisation: Skills Generation Employer: Wesley Mission Queensland	Mason Irving Qualification: Certificate III in Carpentry School: Marist College Ashgrove Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: CJC Construction
Krystal Clayton came to the Deadly Start program at Ipswich Hospital's Ward 7C knowing exactly why representation in healthcare matters for First Nations communities. Working in Acute Care of the Elderly, Krystal volunteered for additional holiday shifts, took on the role of Sports Captain at school, and leads from a place of genuine care, not obligation. Krystal knows that the presence of a First Nations healthcare worker in a ward can profoundly impact how a patient feels about the care they are about to receive.	Elizabeth Harvey is the first student from Ipswich Girls Grammar School to undertake a traineeship with Wesley Mission Queensland and marked the achievement by appearing on the cover of the Wesley Mission Queensland 2026 School-based Traineeship Guide. Aspiring to become a Registered Nurse in the Australian Army, Elizabeth has earned recognition for her compassionate and dignified care. Families of aged care residents have personally thanked her for the kindness she consistently shows. That is the kind of presence that cannot be taught in a classroom.	Starting his apprenticeship in Year 10, Mason is well on his way to completing the first year of his carpentry apprenticeship, whilst also studying a Certificate II in Engineering Pathways. His initiative extends beyond the worksite, where he manages his employer’s social media and website to help grow the business. Recognised as a role model for aspiring tradespeople, he was recruited by Construction Skills Queensland as an ambassador for the sector, showcasing the vast opportunities a school-based apprenticeship can lead to.

For outstanding achievement by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student within the Queensland VET sector.

Sponsor

Elephant in the Room Consulting (EITRC) is a 100% Indigenous-owned consultancy founded by award-winning, globally recognised Bundjalung woman and strategist Jenni Walke. EITRC empowers organisations and individuals through culturally grounded leadership development, executive coaching, capability uplift, and strategic consulting. Driven by our guiding philosophy, Wisdom from Country, Strategy for Business, we deliver practical, strengths-based programs that are culturally safe, commercially focused, and transformative.

Finalists

Amira Ahmat Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance School: St James College Registered Training Organisation: Connect 'n' Grow Employer: Metro North Health - Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital	Lachlan Brown Qualification: Certificate III in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Registered Training Organisation: Queensland Ambulance Service Employer: West Moreton Health	Baylee Proctor Qualification: Certificate III in Health Services Assistance School: Narangba Valley State High School Registered Training Organisation: Connect 'n' Grow Employer: Metro North Health – Caboolture Hospital
Amira Ahmat is completing her qualification whilst finishing Year 12 at St James College, all while holding a Rugby League Excellence Scholarship that took her to Samoa to play representative football for her country. A proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young woman with connections to the Birri Gubba, Mudbaurra and Wagadagam peoples, Amira's long-term goal is to become a Remote Area Nurse, taking healthcare back to the communities who need it most.	Lachlan Brown is participating in the U-Me Koola Health Practitioner Pathway Program combining employment with accredited study to build practical skills in culturally safe care. Representing West Moreton Health at the 2025 Closing the Gap Forum in Cairns, participating in Murri Interagency meetings, and learning from Elders, Lachlan is quietly building the foundation for a career dedicated to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.	Baylee joined the Deadly Start program at Caboolture Hospital feeling hesitant to step out of his comfort zone. A proud Kaurareg person, he knew he wanted to help his community. A bull riding finalist who leads improvement in culture and inclusion, he is an informal ambassador for the program and has inspired multiple peers to get involved after witnessing his journey. Baylee brings reliability, cultural respect, and genuine initiative to a clinical environment where these qualities are invaluable.

For outstanding achievement by a student who has recently completed or is due to complete a VET qualification in Queensland.

Sponsor

For over 140 years, TAFE Queensland has delivered practical, industry-relevant training, equipping over 139,000 students annually, including 29,700 apprentices, with skills for rewarding careers. As Queensland’s largest training provider, TAFE Queensland offers 400+ qualifications across 60+ locations, empowering people to achieve their greatness now and into the future.

Finalists

Marta Oliver Alonso Qualification: Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety Registered Training Organisation: eInstitute Employer: VAE Group	Samantha Smith Qualification: Diploma of Nursing Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: St Andrew's Ipswich Private Hospital and Spinal Life Australia	Helaine Wilesmith Qualification: Certificate IV in Marine Habitat Conservation and Restoration / Certificate IV in Conservation and Ecosystem Management Regional Registered Training Organisation: Envirotech Education Employer: PLS Group / self-employed
A Mechanical Engineer and Special Projects Sales Manager, Marta Oliver Alonso completed a Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety online while on maternity leave with a newborn, staying connected to the construction industry during a pivotal life stage. As a migrant woman in a male-dominated field, Marta now mentors younger women in the sector and participates in career speed dating for girls in engineering. A powerful example of what representation, resilience and continuous learning look like in practice.	Samantha Smith left school in Year 10 as a young mother and is now a Graduate Enrolled Nurse at St Andrew’s Ipswich Private Hospital, where she completed her training. She also founded a peer support group for graduate nurses and works as a community support worker with Spinal Life Australia. Balancing study, work and parenthood, Samantha is inspired by her young son to pursue her goals. She is passionate about surgical nursing and advocating for vocational pathways that create opportunities for young parents.	Helaine is a former award-winning finance professional who transitioned to conservation to pursue her passion for the environment. A recreational fisherwoman and former Vice Commodore of Brisbane’s largest offshore fishing club, Helaine bridges conservation and fishing communities. Completing the world's only accredited marine habitat VET qualifications, Helaine is a bridge between two worlds that rarely meet.

For outstanding achievement by a trainee who has recently completed or is due to complete a traineeship in Queensland.

Sponsor

MEGT is an Australian not-for-profit organisation that has been supporting employers, apprentices, trainees and job seekers for 40 years. Established in 1982, MEGT's flexible, low-risk labour solutions and expertise in sourcing, screening, and employing high-quality apprentices and trainees ensures we place the right people in the right jobs to fill skills gaps and future-proof our Australian workforce.

Finalists

Byron Bauwens-Siogren Qualification: Certificate I in Construction Registered Training Organisation: Construction Skills Training Centre Employer: yourtown	Amerina Smith Qualification: Certificate III in Business Administration Registered Training Organisation: Work Skills Employer: Ipswich City Council	Pooja Lakshmi Suresh Babu Qualification: Certificate I in Workplace Skills Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)
Byron used vocational training to create a stable future for family and community. Completing a Certificate I in Construction through yourtown’s Work Skills Traineeship program, Byron developed practical trade skills, earned a driver’s licence and secured a construction apprenticeship while balancing the responsibilities of welcoming a second child. A proud Aboriginal man, Byron has become a positive role model through strong work ethic, leadership and cultural pride. Sharing personal experiences through community initiatives and mentoring others reflects Byron’s commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation.	Amerina discovered confidence, direction and a passion for local government through a traineeship with Ipswich City Council. Completing a Certificate III in Business Administration, Amerina gained experience across multiple council departments, contributing to major projects including large-scale safety events, records management and workplace wellbeing initiatives. Known for reliability, initiative and a positive attitude, Amerina has become a valued team member while encouraging other young people to consider vocational education pathways. Strong communication skills and a commitment to continuous growth continue to shape Amerina’s emerging professional career.	Pooja transitioned from managing multi-million-dollar IT projects in India to building a purpose-driven career supporting vulnerable communities in Queensland. After overcoming significant barriers as a skilled migrant, Pooja completed a Certificate I in Workplace Skills through the ECCQ BASE program and secured a Projects Officer role with Refugee and Immigration Legal Service (RAILS). Pooja now champions vocational education, migrant pathways and community impact while developing a not-for-profit technology consultancy focused on improving outcomes for community organisations.

For outstanding achievement by an apprentice who has recently completed or is due to complete an apprenticeship in Queensland.

Sponsor

Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) supports apprentices, workers, and employers by funding essential training and work tickets through partnered RTOs. Collaborating with industry statewide, CSQ delivers tailored training solutions to meet local needs, helping individuals and businesses stay competitive, secure new opportunities, and adapt to the evolving construction industry.

Finalists

Sukanya (Annie) Craig Qualification: Certificate III in Commercial Cookery Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: The Brisbane Club	Shanay Jonker Qualification: Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade Registered Training Organisation: TAFE Queensland Employer: Drake Trailers	Augustino Omeli Qualification: Certificate III in Painting and Decorating Registered Training Organisation: Gimbal Training Employer: G.A.S Painting and Decorating
After more than 15 years working in hospitality across Thailand and Japan, Annie decided to formalise expertise built across a lifetime of cooking, completing a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery through TAFE Queensland. Twice runner-up for Apprentice Chef of the Year and a WorldSkills Brisbane Region bronze medallist. Annie is a dedicated mentor to female chefs navigating male-dominated kitchens, Annie's journey is a compelling reminder that it is never too late to follow a passion professionally.	Shanay first stepped into Drake Trailers on work experience in Year 10 and never looked back. Completing a Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade, Shanay became the youngest apprentice to complete and remain working in the business, designing a comprehensive systems training manual and delivering one-on-one sessions to tradespeople across the company. A semi-finalist in the Queensland Women in Manufacturing Awards and active mentor in the Manufacturing Skills Queensland Women in Trades program, Shanay's message to other women is straightforward: back yourself, speak up, and aim for more than the minimum.	Originally from New Zealand, Augustino arrived in Australia searching for a career worth being proud of and found it in the trades. Completing a Certificate III in Painting and Decorating, Augustino became the first apprentice in the company, growing alongside the business from day one. Outside the tools, Augustino serves as a youth leader at his church, mentoring young people with the same patience and consistency brought to every job site. The lesson drawn from both roles is the same: real leadership is demonstrated through showing up, not through seniority.