Awards for apprentice Liam
Year 2018 has finished on a high note for the first year of Liam Fitzpatrick’s work career at SJ & LM Contracting in Mulwala.
On Monday, December 3 in Shepparton, the 18-year-old from Tungamah was awarded a framed certificate for Outstanding First Year Apprentice in Engineering Fabrication at Go Tafe.
On Tuesday, December 11, at his work place, Liam was told of his selection for a Bert Evans OAM Scholarship. It’s for $15,000 over three years of the four-year apprenticeship.
The scholarship is awarded to apprentices who need additional financial assistance and who have demonstrated financial hardship. Also taken into consideration are attributes of apprentices.
Of 58 applications in the Riverina/Murray Region, nine were awarded the Bert Evans Scholarship. Overall, 75 were awarded throughout NSW.
The Bert Evans Scholarship commenced in 2014 and is continuing despite the passing of Mr Evans in 2017.
The NSW Government funds six providers in Victoria from the Riverina office to support apprentices along the border where there are challenges such as travel.
Member for Albury Greg Aplin expressed his delight with SJ LM Contracting in Mulwala, for Liam’s employment.
“You need an employer. “It’s wonderful you presented the opportunity to Liam to have this type of future and learn from others,” Mr Aplin told Mr Adkins.
“It’s so important young people wanting to learn the trades. You can’t survive without a trained workforce.
“Some young people have had their challenges and difficulties. This Bert Evans Scholarship recognises one’s aptitude, persistence and determination to succeed. Liam is showing these attributes. It’s great to be here to make this announcement.”
Liam, who started the second year of his apprenticeship on November 28, is essentially involved in boilermaking and welding work. He thanked NSW Training for the scholarship and everyone at SJ & LM Contracting for their support.
“All employees help me along and I enjoy coming to work every day,” he told the Yarrawonga Chronicle. “The money will be for tools and transport.”
Managing Director of the 2007-established SJ & LM Adkins Contracting business covering engineering construction – one of three equal partners Steve Adkins - said he was “very pleased” with Liam’s employment, his progress and study at Go Tafe.
“He’s a good kid, keen, always punctual, willing to learn and progressing well,” Mr Adkins said.