Snug resident Benjamin Barker has been recognised as the 2024 Apprentice of the Year in the Tasmanian Training Awards.
Ben was taken in by his grandfather as a young teenager and fixing cars was a way for the two of them to connect.
This mutual hobby flourished into study and then a career as Ben went to TasTafe to study heavy vehicle mechanics and then took on a job with Veolia Environmental Services.
“We definitely help each other through,” Ben said of his grandfather, who landed Ben the job with Veolia after striking up a conversation with a mechanic on his job site.
Ben had a rough start in life, losing his mother as a teenager and struggling in school due to dyslexia and other learning disabilities.
“I kind of flicked a switch,” Ben said.
“About Year 7 I said it doesn’t feel right, I’m beating myself up every day.
“I’ve got to make a change.
“From that point onwards I got straight As and skipped a grade forward.
“It was a big drive to be passionate about everything I do.”
Ben has brought this big drive into his career and his nomination as Apprentice of the Year.
“It’s an honour,” he said.
“It’s a nice feeling and a reflection on what hard work and commitment can do.
“I’m hoping I can now use this Apprentice of the Year to speak to schools and other adults considering taking on a trade, be a familiar face for people to come talk to.”
The Tasmanian Training Awards, conducted annually by Skills Tasmania, is part of a nationwide awards program held in all states and territories.
The winners from all eight jurisdictions will come together at the Australian Training Awards in Canberra in December.
Minister for Skills and Training Felix Ellis congratulated the Tasmanian winners of this year’s awards.
“The winners and finalists in this year’s awards are truly inspiring, including individuals, trainers and businesses in roles and industries that support our community and build our economy,” Minister Ellis said.
