Ms Higgins was joined by North Rothbury’s Brandon Bendeich, another apprentice in the Hunter-V-Tec program, as both were singled out for their high calibre of work in the academy program.

The North Lambton student, who is currently completing a Certificate III in Electrotechnology, was presented with the RTO Achievement Award, while Mr Bendeich was awarded the RTO Student of the Year.

It’s particularly rewarding, Ms Higgins revealed, because of the long path she’s taken to gain an electrical apprenticeship within the HVTC system, and the 23-year-old credited a multi-trade pre-course as the experience that “sparked a passion for electrical trade”.

“I love learning something new every day, and the fact that the work I am doing is relevant and will always be needed,” she said. “I enjoy knowing how things operate so the hands-on work keeps me motivated.”

HVTC chief executive Sharon Smith said the vocational education pathways can lead to “career success for many young people”.

“These awards not only celebrate the great results of our apprentices and trainees but they also reflect the significant role our business and industry partners play in making sure our young people secure quality employment outcomes,” Ms Smith said.

All winners in the 13 Excellence Award categories were selected from finalists across HVTC’s ten regional branches located throughout the state.