‘Outstanding’ Kealba apprentice leads his field


A “raw” Kealba airconditioning apprentice has been rewarded for throwing himself in at the deep end, beating a tough field of seven to take out a state trade award.

Christopher Walsh (pictured) was named ‘outstanding apprentice’ at the state awards for apprentices, trainees and host companies in Bulleen on May 26.

The awards acknowledge and support the hard work of apprentices who go through apprentice and trainee programs.

Mr Walsh, who is completing a certificate 3 in refrigeration and airconditioning, said it had been a steep learning curve.

“At the start, coming in raw, I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into, but I’ve found myself involved in something I’m really suited to, and I’m very happy to make a career of it,” he said.

“I’ve been introduced to a work style I’d never done before, and it’s really developed my skills.”

Mr Walsh says he’s thinking of expanding those skills.

“I would be interested in specialising
within my trade and even committing
myself to a dual trade if it was on offer in future.”

More information at www.migas.com.au/about/2015-migas-awards/