Apprentice one of best in state
DARLING Downs diesel fitter Tom Bourne can trace his interest in machinery back to a broken fuel pump.
After he helped rebuild it in his dad’s fuel injection workshop, he was hooked.
Now the 20-year-old can call himself one of the best apprentices across the state.
Mr Bourne was named the Darling Downs south west winner of the Harry Hausenschild Apprentice of the Year for the Queensland Training Awards earlier this month.
He will take on fellow finalists from across Queensland at a gala dinner in September.
The Hastings Deering diesel fitter’s career path started when he enrolled in and finished a Certificate II in engineering and a Certificate II in the final years of schooling.
“These two courses helped me develop the skills needed to stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs,” he said.
“They also helped cement my belief that completing a trade as a diesel fitter was the right pathway for me.
“I finished my apprenticeship last year and have never looked back. I can now work on any machine and have a basic understanding of hydraulic, electronic and mechanical systems.”
Hastings Deering general manager - people and external affairs Vincent Cosgrove said Mr Bourne continued to improve his credentials.
“Tom works in field services where you have to be able to think quickly on your feet and be able to manage a variety of machines,” Mr Cosgrove said.
“He is continually looking to improve his skill set.”