QUAKERS Hill apprentice Michael Fell, 19, took two major prizes at the NSW Housing Industry Association's apprenticeship awards at Ryde last week.
He won First Year Apprentice and Apprentice of the Year in the annual event
Michael, who completed year 12 at William Clark College in Kellyville, always wanted to be a carpentry apprentice. "I enjoy building a house or renovating and I feel good when my works are appreciated," he said.
"My dad Mark and mum Margaret attended the presentation and were over the moon with my achievements."
Mr Fell was referred to HIA by Ku-ring-gai building company Accomplished Construction and Design where he's worked for a year.
Host trainer Darren Brownlee said Michael started off quietly on his apprenticeship but had performed well in his first year.
Kellyville student Kieran Evans won the School-Based Achievement Award for students who stay at school and complete their HSC but can start working on site, do certain school subjects and go to TAFE for years 11 and 12.
His host, Brett Kingham of Know How Constructions, will continue with Kieran as a second-year apprentice after he completes his HSC this year.
HIA's NSW executive director, David Bare, said the apprenticeship awards encouraged and recognised good workmanship and the talent of HIA apprentices.