20/11/2023
Fresh off the back of a recent win at the QLD Weld Australia Welding Excellence Awards, we wanted to put down the tools, and shine a spotlight on the amazing achievements of our very own Britt who now holds the title for Young Trades Person of the Year 2023 for Queensland.
For those who don’t already know; ‘Weld Australia represents the welding profession in Australia. They are a not-for-profit, membership-based organisation, dedicated to providing members with a competitive advantage through access to industry, research, education, certification, government, and the wider industrial community.’
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What does this award mean to you?
Wining this award is not just a recognition of my skills: it’s a validation of my competence, dedication and belonging in the Manufacturing industry.
What sets this achievement apart is that it's recognition at an industry level by a peak body. This means that my skills and contributions have been acknowledged and appreciated by experts in the field. This award is not just about the title; it's about the journey, the growth, and the affirmation that, even on bad days, I've shown I’ve got what it takes in this game.
You’ve been a part of several programs, panels, and experiences within both skills academy and the overall manufacturing industry, how have these experiences impacted you?
Engaging with audiences and participating in discussions on panels has helped me find my voice and has served as an affirmation of the knowledge I hold. When you immerse yourself in a subject every day, it becomes second nature. It’s only when you engage in communicating that knowledge back out that you truly recognise the depth of your understanding.
What is it about the trade that gets you out of bed every day?
One aspect that particularly excites me is the individuality inherent in the trade. While the end result may be the same, the journey to achieving it is as diverse as the individuals involved. It's like an art form where I get to express myself.
The chance to continually think outside the box and contribute my individual touch is what motivates me to embrace each new day in this dynamic and ever evolving field.
What message would you like to share with young people, like yourself, who might be thinking about getting into the industry?
Have a go. What's the worst that can happen? Perhaps you discover that it's not the perfect fit for you. Knowing what isn't for you is just as important as finding what is. It's all part of the journey.
I also hope this award serves as a reminder that you don’t have to be big, strong, and masculine to be in the trade. I don’t fall into the typical stereotype of a boilermaker, and I’m doing just fine.
What has been your favourite moment since starting your apprenticeship?
When I successfully obtained my 6G Pipe Welding certification on the first go – with mild steel and stainless steel! The 6G position is one of the most difficult qualifications to pass because the axis of the pipe is in the 45-degree fixed (non-rotated) position.
Or the time that the WEX Participants though that I was a tradesperson.
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What makes this win even more exciting is the anticipation of seeing if Britt will land herself another title through her application for the Queensland Governments, Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, Women in Manufacturing Apprentice Awards 2024. This award will be announced in early 2024…
Keep your fingers crossed and keep an eye on our socials to see how she goes!
