Apprentice Kate is ‘one of a kind’
A YOUNG cabinet maker described as “one of a kind” has claimed a top honour at The Gordon’s annual awards ceremony.
Kate Elstone took out the Apprentice of the Year award at the Geelong TAFE’s premier event, held last night at The Pier.
Employed at Fusion Cabinets in Ocean Grove, Ms Elstone impressed the judging panel with her leadership ability, dedication and her high results in the World Skills competition.
Her employer, Clint Bosworth, lauded the apprentice’s commitment to improving her craft.
“She will go above and beyond to get things right,” Mr Bosworth said.
“I’ve had a lot of apprentices over the years and not many do the extra work like Kate does.
“She’s one of a kind, think.”
Ms Elstone said she was “shocked” to have even been nominated for the award.
“I studied woodwork at school and liked . . . making something with your own hands and then having a product at the end,” she said.
A total of 21 awards were handed out at the Gordon Awards for Excellence, with prizemoney totalling $13,500.
Louise Nicholas was recognised as the Vocational Student of the Year, capping a return to study that has seen her successfully change I careers. After completing a Diploma of Conservation and Land Management, Ms Nicholas landed a “dream job” with Melbourne Water.
She was chosen for her professionalism and enthusiasm, and her desire to build up her networks in the industry by taking on volunteer roles with a local environment group.
Chief executive Lisa Line said the awards recognised students who set the highest standards, taking into account academic and personal achievements, community involvement and leadership qualities.
“In 2016, more than 13,000 students undertook training with The Gordon via a range of study methods including on campus, online and in the workplace,” Ms Line said.