Queenslanders encouraged to nominate for the 59th annual Training Awards

Apprentices, trainers, VET students and employers have all been encouraged to submit nominations for the States 59th annual Queensland Training Awards. 

Queensland Minister for Training and Skills Development Sharon Fentiman opened nominations for the statewide competition yesterday, with winners to be announced at a gala event in Brisbane in September 2020.

Saying that vocational education and training (VET) “has never been so important” given that nine out of 10 jobs predicted to grow over the next five years will require a VET qualification, Ms Fentiman encouraged the “best of our top training achievers” to place themselves in contention to be recognised at this year’s awards which are open to apprentices, trainees, teachers, employers and training organisations.

“These long-running and highly regarded training awards celebrate how vocational education and training launches careers, grows businesses and is key to making sure we have the highly skilled workforce we need for the jobs now and into the future,” Ms Fentiman added. 

Last year more than 860 nominations were received, which were whittled down to 80 finalists for the Queensland Training Awards, 11 finalists in the Australian Training Awards and two national winners, including TAFE Queensland who were recognised as the International Training Provider of the Year.

Seven regional finals will be held in July as part of the awards cycle, with 11 awards available. Winners will go the State Gala Dinner in September, along with finalists for the large and small training providers of the year and the Premier’s Industry Collaboration Award.

“If you know an inspirational apprentice, trainee, student, employer, teacher or trainer, community initiative or training provider, please nominate them as a way to reward their commitment and encourage them to keep working towards their goals,” Ms Fentiman said.

For a full list of award categories, nomination details and eligibility criteria visit the website, here. Applications are open until 31 March 2020.