The annual SkillsTech Apprentice Awards have been announced at TAFE Queensland.
Chelsea Bowers has been recognised as the Light Automotive Apprentice of the Year for 2020.
She was nominated by her employer John Edwards from John Edwards Automotive, who acknowledged, in particular, the enthusiasm and excitement she brings to the job.
As part of the prize awarded to Bowers she will spend a day with the Shell V-Power racing team at the Dick Johnson Racing Team workshop where she will get to observe and learn about the skills and preparation involved in a professional racing car environment.
Viva Energy is the exclusive distributor of Shell Lubricants in Australia.
In accepting the award Bowers said she felt noticed and part of a community.
“To be nominated for the TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech Apprentice Awards is an absolute blessing,” she said.
“My career aspirations for the future would be to support more women into the workshop. I’d even like to visit schools and inspire other
women to try a trade and see if they like it,” said Bowers.
Viva Energy, which has sponsored the award for the past three years, works in partnership with TAFE Queensland SkillsTech to support the training of the next generation of Australian automotive and heavy-duty diesel technicians.
Cathie Woods, Resources Marketing Manager at Viva Energy said the company was pleased to
sponsor the award.
“We are really proud to be involved with TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech, and presenting this award to Chelsea for excellence in her apprenticeship,” she said.
“It is well-deserved recognition for all of her hard work. I hope she enjoys the award and the day with the Shell V-Power racing team.”
Bowers, according to TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech General Manager, John Tucker is one of the award
winners and nominees who will help build a stronger and more skilled workforce as they industry looks to invest in future leaders.
“Our apprentices and their employers, all had to navigate through a challenging year and it’s wonderful to be able to acknowledge and commend those who have really gone above and beyond,” said Tucker.
“We have so many incredible tradespeople and we hope that the TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech Apprentice Awards provides these men and women with the recognition they deserve, as well as inspiring others to be the best they can be,” he said.
(Image: Di Farmer, Minister Small Business and Training with Chelsea Bowers).