Apprentice of the year Finalists
Ana Gamero
Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade
Inspired by her family’s trades background, Ana began a welding apprenticeship to find confidence and structure during a challenging period as a single mother of four.
As the only woman in both her Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade class, and her workplace, Ana’s technical excellence earned her the 2025 Apprentice of the Year at the Empowered Women in Trades Awards.
"I want to be a positive role model," Ana says. She uses her platform to speak at events like the Master Builders Victoria Diversity and Culture forum, sharing her unique journey as a migrant woman in trades.
Ana takes pride in her craft and the new systems she builds in her workplace. Her future goal is to become a welding inspector, ensuring the industry is inclusive for all.
Alesha Henare
Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Alesha found her calling in the Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology. Her journey from an at-risk youth in Operation Newstart, to a trusted heavy diesel technician, is a powerful story of determination.
"Graduating with a qualification was a big goal," she reflects, having never graduated before.
Her employer praises her diagnostic efficiency and problem-solving mindset, while the community benefits from her volunteer work with the Heart Foundation and her dedication to her Māori heritage and values.
Alesha now aspires to give back. She would like to become a mentor whom apprentices can approach for guidance and support. She also plans to revisit Operation Newstart to offer insights to at-risk youth about pathways into trades.
Ryan Jillings
Certificate III in Barbering
Once a reserved student, Ryan’s journey through the Certificate III in Barbering is defined by growth. Grateful for his teacher’s support in helping him focus, Ryan evolved into a standout talent, securing second place in Chisholm’s Barber Bash.
"I enjoyed learning every aspect of barbering, from technical skills to safety," Ryan shares.
Now working full-time in a barber shop, his employer notes his proactive nature, recently awarding him Most Improved Staff Member.
This passion extends to his community, where he participated in the Love U Bro fundraiser, cutting hair to raise money for anti-violence and men’s mental health.
Now a mentor to apprentices and work-experience students, Ryan is training for the Barber Battle competition, eager to showcase his creative skills on a larger stage.
Jade Larrieu
Certificate III in Hairdressing
After exploring several career paths, Jade found her true purpose in the Certificate III in Hairdressing. "I love the way I can help someone feel beautiful and confident," she says.
Jade credits her Chisholm teachers for helping her overcome self-doubt and building her confidence.
In the salon, Jade is a collaborative force. She builds strong client connections and loves helping peers. Her technical growth is so significant that her employer has invited her to travel to Europe to help educate other hairdressers.
Her community spirit shines through her volunteer work at a local lifesaving club and participation in hairdressing education classes.
Having already styled four weddings, Jade aspires to become a premier event specialist and a mentor for apprentices.
Jackson McCoy
Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade
After leaving school at 15, Jackson’s journey to the Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade was fuelled by almost a decade of hands-on experience.
His teachers praise his initiative and creativity. This was exemplified by his redesign of a standard chiminea into a high-performance meat smoker.
This innovative spirit carries into his professional life, where Jackson serves as lead welder. His work often sees Jackson managing complex workflows and independent quality checks.
His reputation for precision has earned him a role in confidential defence sector projects, reflecting a high level of industry trust.
Beyond his full-time commitments, Jackson manages his own fabrication business. He wants to make fabrication in the automotive industry more accessible, planning to graduate and recruit his first apprentice.
Raphael Solopitias
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Known for his enthusiasm while completing the Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology, Raphael once pulled apart and rebuilt his own car’s differential at home to master the classroom theory. His kindness and encouragement contributed to a positive classroom environment.
Raphael’s rapid promotion to Workshop Manager at Westernport Ford, where he also mentors apprentices, shows his employer’s recognition of his initiative and leadership skills.
Beyond the workshop, Raphael manages his own car detailing business, alleviating significant financial pressures. He volunteers his time ensuring his friends and the local community have safe, reliable transportation.
"I want to give back," Raphael says, reflecting on his positive experience at Chisholm. His goal is to transition into vocational teaching, sharing his expertise and encouragement with future students.
Jessie Ung
Certificate III in Hairdressing
Growing up in a family salon, Jessie’s passion for the Certificate III in Hairdressing was a natural evolution.
At Chisholm, she embraced the freedom to learn techniques that she now teaches to her mother. Her teachers commend Jessie’s maturity, noting that she balances long hours studying and helping to run the family business.
Beyond technical styling, Jessie plays a vital role in supporting her mother, whose additional language is English, with communications and technical terminology in hairdressing. She further contributes by volunteering her styling services for friends’ and family’s special events.
Having already taken a lead role in supporting peers in class, Jessie’s future goal is to become a dedicated mentor, guiding new apprentices through their own professional journeys.