Mas National, Work & Training Apprentices and Trainees Named Tasmania’s Best

Mas National, along with Work & Training (also part of the IntoWork Group), are proud to support five of Tasmania’s top trainees, apprentices and employers as they prepare for the 2024 Australian Training Awards this December.

Work & Training student Imogen Tyers was named Tasmanian Training Award’s Trainee of the Year in Launceston over the weekend.

Initially undergoing a Tourism traineeship, Imogen switched to a Certificate III in Business, realising she could better support her employer Keen Partners and her Host Employer, Seasonal South Motel, and the business’s charity, Due South, which provides wellness services to veterans and first responders. Imogen managed over 100 workers, broadened her skills into wellness and swim coaching and is excited about contributing to future successes.

Work & Training’s Training Consultant Josephine Crantock has been a pillar of support for Imogen throughout her traineeship, offering regular check-ins and guidance, “I’m so proud of Imogen for this incredible achievement. Her remarkable dedication and adaptability have clearly paid off. It’s a pleasure to see her hard work and commitment being recognised on a national stage.”

Fellow Work & Training trainee Hadi Rezale received the Lance Barnard Memorial Award, an accolade exclusive to the Tasmanian Training Awards. Since arriving in Australia from Iran in 2016, Hadi has overcome numerous challenges, including adapting to a new culture and mastering a new language. Despite these hurdles, he has thrived in his traineeship at Oral Health Service Tasmania, balancing his studies, a second job and family responsibilities.

Hadi has shown exceptional perseverance and determination in completing his Certificate III in Dental Assisting through Work & Training. He expressed his appreciation, saying, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives and I look forward to continuing my journey in this field.”

Similarly, Aleira Chalker, a Business trainee signed up by Mas National and named School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year, devoted much of her apprenticeship to improving the lives of other young Tasmanians through various initiatives. With her exceptional leadership, Aleira earned a role within the State Government’s Legislative Council. She gained substantial knowledge from her business course, contributing insights at the Big Picture School and Tasmanian Youth Forums, and further developed her skills through multiple internships.

Recently, Aleira played a pivotal role in advocating for the Youth Drop-in Centre in Glenorchy, collaborating with community organisations, local politicians and schools, and presenting the concept to the relevant Minister. She is keen to promote the advantages of School-based Apprenticeships and continue her advocacy for social justice.

After transitioning from a disengaged student to a key player in his family’s business, Ryan Frosi, was recognised as the 2024 Equity Apprentice or Trainee of the Year. Signed up by Mas National, Ryan excelled in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology at TasTAFE, with support from Vokes Mechanical and Engineering. His success highlights his commitment and enthusiasm for mechanics, as well as the transformative impact of vocational training in the state.

The awards also honoured Howrah Plumbing and Nexus Inc, Dowsing Point, as Small and Large Employer of the Year, respectively. These companies, both supported by Mas National as their Apprentice Connect Provider, have demonstrated a strong commitment to training and development.

Work & Training Acting CEO Rodney Hayden expressed his pride in the achievements, stating, “We are immensely proud of all our nominees and winners. Their dedication and success not only highlight their personal commitment but also underscore the effectiveness of our training programs. Congratulations to everyone on their well-deserved recognition.”

Mas National Acting CEO Ruth Huntermark added, “These achievements reflect the strength and dedication within our vocational training community. We are excited to see how our nominees and winners will represent Tasmania at the national level.”

Additionally, as a proud sponsor of the event, Mas National were honoured to present the Award for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year to Harley Mansell. First Nation Engagement Officer, Phoebe Mordecai, represented Mas National at the ceremony and handed the trophy to Harley, who was recognised for his steadfast perseverance and resilience throughout his studies, as well as his deep commitment to his cultural heritage and community.

The IntoWork Group would like to extend congratulations to Work & Training Trainees Fadia Alasaad, Alyshia Arnold, Jakob Barrett, and Matthew Westwood, and Learning Partner’s trainee Amanda Grubb for their nominations. Their hard work and dedication are truly commendable.