Nothing to lose and everything to gain
Q&A with Christopher Knight, heavy vehicle mechanic and state Apprentice of the Year
HOW DID YOU GET INTO YOUR TRADE?
I did a Certificate II in Logistics then built up the courage to ask for a job (apprenticeship) and was denied. After three times, I ended up getting a job.
I always wanted to be a mechanic but someone had to put their neck on the line and give me a chance.
WHY SHOULD PEOPLE PURSUE A TRADE?
Besides the skills shortage we have, they should do a trade because of the feeling you get when you fix something – you can’t really describe it.
There are jobs left, right and centre. The advice I would give it is that you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
WHAT DOES YOUR TRADE INVOLVE?
During my apprenticeship, my job was trucks and trailers but now I am working on access equipment so fixing things like forklifts.
I am out of my comfort zone but they – Alfasi Hire – gave me a chance to prove myself and I am loving every step of it.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WIN APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR?
Queensland Training Awards win gave me a feeling of self-worth.
As a finalist in the Australian training Awards I’ll be going out and speaking to institutions and kids. I am keen to make sure the next generation get their foot in the door the right way.
My partner and I have just had a baby and built a house so hopefully I’ll get up on the Australian Awards, too.