Hayley Campbell's barrier-breaking journey shows that you can turn setbacks into success
After more than a decade working in the mining industry, it looked like Hayley’s journey to become an electrician had passed her by. Hayley had other plans.
Instead, she chose to keep pursuing a dream that many times seemed out of reach, a decision that has now seen her celebrated at the 2026 TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech CSQ Apprentice Awards for winning the BUSY At Work Breaking Barriers Apprentice of the Year.
Now a third-year electrical apprentice doing her Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820), Hayley's journey has been defined by determination, resilience, and an unwavering belief that it is never too late to upgrade your life. Before securing her apprenticeship, she spent six to seven years applying for electrical roles while working in mining, facing repeated setbacks, unsuccessful applications, and challenges with literacy, numeracy, and interview processes.
Rather than giving up, she continued learning, improving, and putting herself forward for every opportunity she could find.
The challenges didn't stop once she secured an apprenticeship. Returning to study as a mature-age apprentice after more than 12 years in the workforce pushed her well beyond her comfort zone. During her first year, Hayley was diagnosed with ADHD and later identified additional learning challenges, requiring her to develop new study techniques and seek support from teachers, mentors, and colleagues. Through persistence and hard work, she transformed those challenges into strengths.
Today, Hayley is not only excelling in her apprenticeship at Whitehaven Coal's Daunia Mine, but also inspiring others through her "Sparket Cadet" social media platform, where she mentors aspiring apprentices and encourages more women to consider careers in trades and mining.
"There were plenty of times when I thought becoming an electrician just wasn't going to happen for me," Hayley said.
"I'd spent years applying for apprenticeships, getting knocked back, and wondering if I was good enough. Going back to TAFE as a mature-age student was scary, but it changed my life. If my story shows someone that it's okay to start again, ask for help, and back yourself, then that's something I'm really proud of."
"The mining industry and my apprenticeship have given me opportunities I never thought I'd have. It proves you're never too old, it's never too late, and you don't have to follow the same path as everyone else to be successful."
Stephen Gates, General Manager of TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech (RTO 0275), praised Hayley's achievement.
"Hayley's story is a powerful example of what can be achieved through persistence, courage, and hard work. She has overcome personal and professional barriers to excel in a traditionally male-dominated trade, while also creating opportunities and inspiration for others," Stephen said.
"Hayley is a deserving recipient whose journey demonstrates the life-changing impact of apprenticeships and the importance of breaking down barriers for future generations."
For Hayley, the award represents far more than individual success. It stands as proof that setbacks do not define a person's future, and that with determination, support, and courage, extraordinary opportunities can follow.