Brylie sparks success at Queensland Training Awards

Brylie’s win is a testament to her dedication, skill, and passion for her trade and she was proud to be recognised among a strong field of female finalists in the award category. 

“I am feeling very happy and proud to be named the Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year,” said Brylie when reflecting on her achievement. 

“It was incredible to see that all three finalists were females.”

Brylie’s journey began in Yanchep, a small town in Western Australia, where she realised early on that traditional schooling wasn’t the right fit. 

“I didn’t learn the way everyone else did in school — I learnt very hands-on,” she explained. 

After leaving school in Year 10, Brylie enrolled in a Certificate II in Engineering at a nearby TAFE, where she first discovered her passion for the trade. 

This initial spark led her to embark on a Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (MEM31922) apprenticeship through TAFE Queensland and Stanwell in Kingaroy. 

After gaining considerable experience at Stanwell and successfully completing her apprenticeship, Brylie has continued to build her career in the energy sector. She recently extended her hands-on experience by working on a shutdown project with UGL and is now preparing to begin a new role with Kent. 

For Brylie, her love for the trade stems from its diversity and global applicability. 

“You can take it anywhere in the world and work on nearly anything — from boats to tanks to the oil and gas industries,” explained Brylie.

That same passion and drive to explore the full potential of her trade was on full display during her preparation for the 2023 WorldSkills Australia regional competition, where she represented the region in welding.

Brylie trained intensively under the guidance of TAFE Queensland mentor and engineering teacher, Peter Town, at the Kingaroy campus and she achieved gold at the competition in Toowoomba.

The following year, Brylie was recognised as Weld Australia’s Young Tradesperson of the Year, which further cemented her reputation as a standout talent in the industry.

Now, Brylie is looking ahead to the state finals for the Queensland Training Awards on Saturday, 13 September 2025 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and she is feeling both nervous and excited. 

“To be there representing my region, but even more importantly women in trades, is an honour,” she said. 

“We are all winners just by being there.” 

TAFE Queensland General Manager (South West region), Kate Venables, said the organisation was immensely proud of Brylie’s achievement and the broader impact of her success in inspiring other young women to pursue trades.

“Brylie’s success is a powerful example of what determination, passion, and quality Vocational Education and Training can achieve,” said Ms Venables.

“Her journey inspires not only other apprentices and young women considering a career in trades. Brylie’s story also highlights the vital role TAFE Queensland plays in delivering high-quality training across remote, rural, and regional communities like Kingaroy.” 

“We are incredibly proud of Brylie and thrilled to see her representing the Darling Downs and South West region with such distinction.”

Brylie’s story is not only a celebration of achievement, but a call to action — her journey stands as proof that with courage and self-belief, young women can break barriers and thrive in industries once considered out of reach.

Reflecting on her own experience, Brylie shared heartfelt advice for other young women considering a trade 

“Don’t let anyone’s opinions stop you from doing exactly what you want to do. People told me it was hot, heavy, and hard work — especially for women — but I was determined.” 

“All it takes is one person to believe in you, and that person is you.”