Canberra’s vocational education and training sector came together last night to honour excellence at the 2025 ACT Training Awards. The annual event recognised outstanding individuals, employers, and providers who are helping shape the skills of the city’s workforce and supporting the ACT’s growing economy.
Minister for Skills, Training and Industrial Relations, Michael Pettersson MLA, congratulated all finalists and winners, highlighting their vital contribution to the future of the Territory.
“The ACT is proud to have a strong and vibrant vocational education and training sector, supported by high-quality providers offering a wide range of courses for learners and employers,” Minister Pettersson said. “As our city grows, these skills are vital to driving economic development and preparing our young people for the future.”
He added that the awards reflect the resilience and adaptability of the sector. “I applaud each of the employers and organisations recognised this year for their commitment to supporting continuous skill growth. Not only does this strengthen individual career pathways, but it contributes to a more resilient and adaptable workforce for our city.”
Winners in 2025 will go on to represent the ACT at the Australian Training Awards, the peak national stage showcasing best practice in vocational education and training.
Among the individuals recognised was Kaydence Claire Storm, named ACT Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year, and Stewart McLeod, awarded ACT Apprentice of the Year. Jiwon Kwack was celebrated as ACT Trainee of the Year, while Jaharn Mundy-Drazevich received ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year. Shane Jordyn Vincent was named ACT Vocational Student of the Year and Laura Henry recognised as ACT VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year.
Organisational winners included YWCA Canberra, led by Frances Crimmins, which took home ACT Large Employer of the Year, and the Wodens Monaro Highway Civil Taster Program, winner of the Industry Collaboration category. The Centre of Professional Learning & Education (Cple) was awarded ACT Small Training Provider of the Year, while the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) was named ACT Large Training Provider of the Year.
Minister Pettersson said these achievements are underpinned by strong government support. “This resilience and adaptability are supported by initiatives like Free TAFE, special policy initiatives under the National Skills Agreement, and our commitment to growing the ACT workforce to 300,000 jobs by 2030. We will continue to work with the sector to strengthen our economy, the capability of our workforce, and the quality of jobs offered by our dynamic and growing local industries.”
For the ACT community, the Training Awards are more than a celebration of achievement. They are a reminder of the critical role vocational education and training plays in giving people practical skills, opening career pathways, and ensuring Canberra has a strong workforce ready for the future.
For more information about the winners, click here.
