Taking out the top prize at the TAFE Queensland 2022 Townsville Trade Excellence Awards, local Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic, Connor Spence, has been named the 2022 Outstanding Apprentice of the Year.
Selected from 1,400 of his peers to receive the prestigious title, Connor was also awarded the Refrigeration Apprentice of the Year title.
Currently working at HJC Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, he is completing an apprenticeship while attending block training at the TAFE Queensland Townsville Trade Training Centre.
The north region TAFE Queensland Director of Trades, Mark Patterson, said Connor was an exemplary student.
“Connor is an exceptional mentor to his class and workmates and takes advantage of every opportunity to improve his skills and industry knowledge,” he said.
“I’d like to congratulate him for taking out the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year title.”
Unable to attend the ceremony in Townsville on October 27, Connor said he was very grateful and that the announcement came as a complete shock.
“It was unreal to know that out of so many people who were nominated, I ended up winning. It was very humbling and I feel honoured,” he said.
“I started my apprenticeship straight out of high school. I didn’t know anything about the trade, I just kind of fell into it and thought I’d give it a go.
“I really enjoy the variety of jobs within my trade, there are so many different aspects to the domestic, commercial and industrial side of the industry, so there’s always something to learn.”
Connor Spence, TAFE Townsville Apprentice of The Year
