Marley Courtney, a proud Kaurna woman and fabrication apprentice, has been honoured with the Apprentice of the Year Award at the prestigious NAIDOC Week Riverland Awards. This recognition highlights the significant contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanderindividuals within the Riverland community. Marley, a resident of Renmark, South Australia, is currently pursuing a Certificate III in Engineering and has already made a remarkable impact in her field.
At the age of 17, Marley faced the challenge of entering a male-dominated industry and finding her place in the world of fabrication. Despite initial setbacks, including being turned down for a hairdressing apprenticeship, Marley remained determined to pursue her passion for metal technology, which she developed during her high school years. The journey required her to balance her studies, work responsibilities, and personal growth, all while navigating the complexities of a new and challenging environment.
Marley’s journey into fabrication began with her love for metal technology in high school. Encouraged by her friends and supported by the Australian Apprentice Support Network (Mas National), she decided to pursue a trade pathway. Mas National played a crucial role in facilitating her placement with SA Water in Berri, where she is now eight months into her apprenticeship.
The support from Mas National was instrumental in her onboarding process. They provided clear explanations of the apprenticeship process and ensured a seamless transition into her new role. Marley’s proactive approach, punctuality, and eagerness to learn quickly set her apart in the workplace. She joined a diverse team, including two other female apprentices, and found a supportive and encouraging environment at SA Water.
Marley’s hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. Her nomination for the Apprentice of the Year Award came as a pleasant surprise, validating her efforts and the support she has received. She expressed her gratitude, saying, “It’s a good feeling knowing all my hard work, from working overtime to being eager to learn, is paying off and it’s getting recognised.”
The supportive environment at SA Water has been crucial in her development. Marley has had the opportunity to learn from experienced senior colleagues and has been able to take on new responsibilities. Her proactive approach and willingness to learn have made her a valuable member of the team.
Marley Courtney’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of support systems in achieving one’s goals. Her journey from a high school student with a passion for metal technology to a recognised apprentice in the engineering and fabrication industry is inspiring. Marley’s advice to others considering a fabrication apprenticeship is to embrace the opportunity and not let setbacks deter them. She encourages everyone to remember that every “no” brings them one step closer to a “yes.”
Marley’s future is bright, and she is eager to continue her growth in the trade, aspiring to reach the level of her senior colleagues and take on more responsibilities. Her success serves as an inspiration to young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, demonstrating that with determination and support, they can excel in any field they choose.
