Awarding the future talent of the Building Services industry
2nd Dec 2011
Ms Heidi Hanlon has become the first female apprentice to receive the prestigious Allan Coombs Training Award, awarded by employer A.G. Coombs and named after the Company’s founder, Mr Allan George Coombs AM*.
The Allan Coombs Training Award commenced in 2000 and is conferred annually, with recipients each receiving a personal cheque for $2,500.00, with an identical amount donated to the winner’s charity of choice.
Heidi is currently into the fourth year of her Mechanical Plumbing apprenticeship. The win recognises her ongoing application, effort and dedication to both her role and the building services industry. Last year, less than 12% of those undertaking apprenticeships were female**, making Heidi’s recent success an extra special feat.
“Prior to commencing my apprenticeship, I actually worked as a teacher”, stated Heidi on receiving the award. “I wanted to move on from the education industry and take on something completely different. With apprenticeships being available to anyone of working age, and requiring no specific entry qualifications, I explored this option and was attracted by A.G. Coombs’ structured and comprehensive Apprenticeship Program. I’m now into my fourth year of my apprenticeship and I love it! Receiving the award is an amazing achievement of which I am very proud. I’m looking forward to furthering my career with the Company as a qualified professional in Mechanical Plumbing.”
The Australian Government strongly supports Australian Apprenticeships, recognising that they are “the best way to combine training and employment, often leading to a nationally recognised qualification” ***. A.G. Coombs’ Managing Director, Mr Russell Telford, supports this notion.
“Our 65-year history in apprenticeship training and development has been further strengthened over the last 15 years, with our Program helping to ensure that apprentices make the most of their training opportunities and become effective and capable tradespeople with a great future in the industry”, he said. “We combine professional mentoring and active engagement with partner educational facilities to continually track training progress and to help ensure that the educational curriculum is appropriate to workplace and apprentice needs.
“The Allan Coombs Training Award is a significant accomplishment for every apprentice who receives it. Heidi has been an invaluable member of the team; we’re proud to support her on her journey and look forward to working with her over the years to come.”
* Mr Allan George Coombs was a pioneer in the Plumbing, Air Conditioning and Mechanical Services industry whose leadership was significant in advancing the profile and recognition of the Victorian Building Industry. Last year, Coombs was admitted into the ARBS Hall of Fame owing to his admirable legacy of continuous improvement, innovation, training and industry leadership, which remains evident across the Company and the industry today.
** Source: ABS Media Release “Over half the Australian population has a qualification”, 24 November 2010
*** Source: http://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/