Apprentice Jeweller of the Year goes from graphic design to goldsmithing

After two decades as a graphic designer, Clint’s career saw him shifting away from design into systems and people management, pulling him away from the creative work he craved.

“My love for graphic design came from combining illustration, sculpture, and creativity. However, after I moved into management, it became difficult for me to enjoy my work as I wanted to create tangible art,” Clint said.

Inspired by his father, a master goldsmith of 55 years, Clint decided to make a bold career change and become a jeweller, fulfilling his desire to work with his hands.

“Dad and I approached Stuart Bishop at Gemcraft Australia and asked for an apprenticeship, and fortunately, one was available, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity.”

"Although changing careers was daunting, I was ready for something new, and as crazy as it was, I was - and still am – excited to start fresh from the ground up and return to creating,” he explained.

Clint’s apprenticeship required him to attend block training at TAFE Queensland, where he studied the Certificate III in Jewellery Manufacturing (MEM3605) to become qualified.

This training gave Clint access to expert teachers and modern tools, laser welding machines and casting equipment at the South Bank Campus’ state-of-the-art workshop.

His training equipped him with jewellery repair, stone setting, metal casting, chain making, and technical drawing skills that prepared him to transform his career into a jeweller.

"The four-week blocks of concentrated learning were incredibly valuable, and my teachers, Jane and Ann, have a remarkable wealth of knowledge and were very supportive,” Clint explained.

“They showed me different approaches and encouraged me every step of the way - it's crazy how much I learned from them in under three years.”

“The course was well-structured, and the theory complemented the practical work, giving me a solid foundation of skills and knowledge to become a jeweller. And the collaborative classroom environment allowed me to build a strong network with my fellow apprentices,” he said.

Crediting TAFE Queensland’s hands-on training with helping him master jewellery design and craftsmanship, Clint now works alongside his dad at Gemcraft Australia.

"Learning from my dad and sharing this journey with him is truly special - not everyone gets to sit beside such a talented mentor and create all day. I’ve also been learning from other mentors in the industry, and it’s inspiring to see how willing everyone is to give back," he said.

“From a skills perspective, TAFE’s training was a valuable opportunity to experiment with different techniques and creative projects I wouldn't have tackled. I can now apply my new skills to future jewellery pieces.”

Held each year, the Apprentice Jeweller of the Year competition celebrates the artistry and skill of jewellery apprentices. The competition is a testament to TAFE Queensland’s commitment to fostering talent and shaping the next generation of highly skilled jewellers.

Graduates are challenged to design and manufacture three jewellery pieces that meet specific criteria, showcasing their creativity and craftsmanship at an annual event attended by family, friends, sponsors and faculty.

For Clint, winning the competition was a pivotal experience, and he relished the challenge of designing and creating three stunning pieces of jewellery and a design portfolio, Nostalgia, in just four weeks.

Inspired by cherished memories and personal milestones, Clint’s jewellery breathed new life into the past, transforming it into "NeoJewellery,” with each piece telling a unique story, blending sentimentality with contemporary design.

From childhood mood rings to bicycle bells and vintage rosary beads, Clint’s creations evoked a sense of longing for simpler times while embracing modern aesthetics. His collection captured the essence of nostalgia, merging old and new to create meaningful, wearable art.

Central to the collection is the incorporation of mood stones, which shift colour with temperature changes, symbolising transformation.

His bicycle bell ring celebrates the joy of movement, merging function with nostalgia, while his watch cuff reimagines the classic mood ring, blending analogue charm with modern technology.

Finally, a set of prayer beads honours family heritage, offering a versatile design that blends vintage elements with contemporary adaptability. Together, these pieces reflect Clint’s passion for reinvention and personal connection.

"I was pushed to my limits - experimenting with designs, prototypes, and techniques that showcased my creativity was both challenging and rewarding,” he said.

Winning ahead of 25 other competing apprentices validated Clint’s bold career leap, and he’s excited to continue growing his skills and contributing to Australia’s thriving jewellery industry.

"It’s incredibly humbling to know I’m on the right path. None of this would have been possible without the support of my wife, Rita, my two wonderful daughters and my parents," he said.

"The process of turning raw metal into a beautiful, finished piece is magical. Being a jeweller is deeply rewarding, from restoring a family heirloom to bringing a customer’s vision to life. TAFE Queensland’s training gave me knowledge, skills, and a clear professional purpose," he said.

Clint’s carer change highlights the power of lifelong learning and creativity, proving it’s never too late to turn your passion into career success.