Mount Isa honours its top trades talent

Michael, who completed his Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (Boilermaking/Welding) (MEM31922) through TAFE Queensland and an apprenticeship with Glencore, took home two awards: Engineering Apprentice of the Year and the night’s top honour, Outstanding Apprentice of the Year.

Michael has earned a reputation for producing precise, high-quality work, supporting his team, and taking pride in doing things the right way. His teachers and supervisors describe him as a leader with integrity and a consistently positive attitude, who brings out the best in those around him.

Reflecting on the awards, Michael said the recognition still doesn’t feel real.

“I honestly didn’t expect to get this far,” he said. “It hasn’t really sunk in yet, but it feels amazing to be recognised. I think it’ll hit me properly once I’ve had a night to take it all in.”

Michael says his passion for the trade comes from being able to work creatively with his hands.

“I’ve always enjoyed being creative, and boilermaking is the perfect outlet for that,” he said. “When Glencore offered the apprenticeship, I thought, why not take the opportunity? It turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made.”

He also credits TAFE Queensland for helping him build the skills and confidence to succeed.

“I’ve learned so much at TAFE,” he said. “It’s really filled the gaps, and that’s made a huge difference for me.”

Looking ahead, Michael hopes to keep developing his skills and exploring other areas of engineering.

“I’ve had the chance to work alongside fitters on site, and that’s opened my eyes to other pathways in engineering,” he said. “There are plenty of directions I could take from here. For now, I’m just proud to have finished my apprenticeship.”

TAFE Queensland North region Director of Educational Delivery for Trades and Transport, Maree Butler said Michael was a deserving recipient of the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year title.

“Michael’s attention to safety, his drive for excellence, and his leadership in both the workshop and the classroom make him a standout in every way,” Ms Butler said. “He’s trusted by his employer, respected by his peers, and valued by his trainers. We’re proud to recognise him as this year’s Outstanding Apprentice of the Year.”

Over 450 apprentices and trade students currently train with TAFE Queensland in Mount Isa. This year’s awards saw 52 nominations, with 24 finalists selected across a range of trades.

Among the standout winners was Lily Skinner, from Spinifex State College, who was named TAFE at School Trade Student of the Year – Automotive and Engineering. Lily is completing a Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation (AUR20720), a course that gives high school students a head start in the automotive industry.

“Lily is an outstanding example of what TAFE at School is all about,” Ms Butler said. “Her passion, commitment, and positive attitude will take her far in the industry. She’s shown that when young people take the opportunity to try a trade, they can achieve amazing results.”

Another key award went to Griffin Clapham, 27, from T.Real.CO, who received the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Trade Student of the Year Award. Griffin is currently completing his Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220).

“Griffin has shown what’s possible when you commit to change and back yourself,” Ms Butler said. “He’s a thoughtful, determined student who’s now a proud role model to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices.”

The 2025 Mount Isa Trade Excellence Awards would not be possible without the generous support of main event sponsor Glencore and award sponsors Napa Auto Parts and Haz-Elec Industries.
 

TAFE Queensland 2025 Mount Isa Trade Excellence Awards winners:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Trade Student of the Year, Griffin Clapham, T Real Construction and Maintenance.
• Female Trade Student of the Year, Brianna Thirlwall, Mount Isa Mines Ltd (Glencore).
• TAFE at School Trade Student of the Year – Building & Industries, Cooper Douglas, Good Shepherd Catholic College
• TAFE at School Trade Student of the Year – Automotive and Engineering, Lily Skinner, Spinifex State College
• Automotive & Diesel Fitting Apprentice of the Year, Aminiasi Vatuvei, Popeys Diesel Services
• Building & Construction Apprentice of the Year, Korey Trott, LCM Carpentry & Glazing
• Electrical Apprentice of the Year, Matthew Murphy, Chelwood Pty Ltd
• Engineering Apprentice of the Year, Michael Koza, Mount Isa Mines Ltd (Glencore)
• Outstanding Apprentice of the Year, Michael Koza, Mount Isa Mines Ltd (Glencore)