Perin Breakell
Perin’s only regret is that she didn’t start her carpentry apprenticeship earlier.
Moving from Western Australia to Melbourne six years ago was the fresh start Perin needed to pursue her lifelong dream to become a carpenter. She studied a Certificate III in Carpentry.
After she was knocked back for 50 apprenticeships, Perin remained determined. She continued making calls, sending emails and knocking on doors until a family builder took a chance on her. They never looked back. In fact, her boss now wants to employ more female tradies in the future.
Perin won the 2024 State Apprentice of the Year award at the Master Builders Victoria Awards, where she competed against 150 nominees.
She was also awarded the State Apprentice of the Year – Developing Leader Award and the Metro Apprentice of the Year – Developing Leader Award.
Her positive experience with Chisholm has inspired her to one day return as a teacher.
At home, Perin loves to help her family and friends with carpentry tasks. She is also proud to have completed the course so she can encourage her nieces and nephews to follow her footsteps into a rewarding career.
Since completing her apprenticeship, Perin has been an advocate for women in the construction industry. She has helped her teacher place women apprentices in reputable companies.
She encourages women to ‘have a crack at a trade. What have you got to lose?’
Perin won the 2025 Chisholm Education Awards Apprentice of the Year.