Part-time CQU student Timothy Hall, of Gracemere, has been named the state’s Apprentice of the Year at the 2005 Queensland Training Awards.

Mr Hall is a full-time engineering cadet at Moura Mine during the week, a boilermaker in Rockhampton at weekends, and studies 3 to 4 hours a night towards a civil engineering degree at CQU.

He was recognised for demonstrating outstanding commitment to his trade and his future career directions. His strong leadership skills and many impressive achievements in his relatively brief career also impressed the judging panel.

An interest in welding and metal fabrication at high school prompted Timothy to apply for a boilermaking apprenticeship with NRG Gladstone Operating Services in 2002. Throughout his studies, Timothy proved to be a conscientious and dedicated student, ensuring he understood every aspect of the course and often assisting other students with problems.

By his second year he was being challenged with more complex tasks which he completed with enthusiasm and precision. Having acquired respect as a professional tradesperson by his third year, Timothy was already being given major projects to manage.

After three years of dedicated study and training he finished his apprenticeship early this year and is now closer to reaching his career goal of becoming a Consultant Welding Engineer.

While having a boilermaking trade is not a prerequisite to becoming a Welding Engineer, Timothy believes the trade will provide him with the practical experience and knowledge to build a strong foundation for future studies and employment.

After completing his apprenticeship, Timothy accepted a job with Anglo Coal and is now working as an Engineering Cadet at the Moura Mine.

Timothy is committed to continuing his skills development and has also recently completed an Advanced Diploma in Engineering and is now studying a Degree in Civil Engineering at CQU.

Employment, Training and Industrial Relations Minister Tom Barton announced the award at the state final presentation dinner at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre attended by more than 650 guests (on September 8).

The Queensland Training Awards are the state’s most coveted training prize for apprentices, trainees, vocational students, employers, schools, training providers and others committed to training.

Most Queensland winners are now eligible to nominate for the Australian Training Awards which will be held in Perth in November.

For more information about the awards freecall 1800 660 207 or visit www.qta.qld.gov.au