Powered by perseverance: Electrical apprentice Nick lights up awards night
For Nicholas Harrison (Nick), the journey to becoming an electrician has never been just about earning a qualification. It has been about backing himself, creating a better future for his family, and proving that it is never too late to pursue a lifelong goal.
That determination was recognised in spectacular fashion at the 2026 TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech CSQ Apprentice Awards, where fourth-year apprentice Nick was named MEGT Electrical Apprentice of the Year before being crowned the prestigious CSQ Outstanding Apprentice of the Year.
His success came after being selected as a finalist in three award categories, an achievement that highlights the remarkable impact he has made throughout his apprenticeship journey and cements his reputation as one of Queensland's most outstanding emerging tradespeople.
"To be a finalist in three categories and then get both Electrical Apprentice of the Year and Outstanding Apprentice of the Year has got me speechless. I feel proud to have gotten these awards, and I'm grateful to my family, employer, mentors and TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech trainers who have supported me every step of the way," Nick said.
A fourth-year apprentice studying his Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820), Nick entered the trade after spending years working as a telecommunications technician. Despite not completing Year 12 and once doubting whether he could become an electrician, he embraced the challenge of starting over and committed himself fully to learning a new trade.
Throughout his apprenticeship, Nick has consistently gone above and beyond. He successfully completed every block on his first attempt while balancing full-time work, demanding project schedules and family responsibilities. His commitment, professionalism and technical capability earned the trust of his employer, providing opportunities to work on complex electrical infrastructure projects and support critical operations across Queensland.
What makes Nick's achievement even more inspiring is the adversity he has overcome along the way. During his apprenticeship he supported his family through significant challenges, including caring for a child with autism and navigating serious family circumstances, all while recovering from multiple retinal detachment surgeries. Through it all, he remained focused on his studies, his work and the future he was building for his loved ones.
"Nick is the type of person every employer hopes to have on their team," said Rhys Martin, Project Manager for CV Services Group.
"He consistently approaches challenges with professionalism, takes initiative in his work and is always willing to support those around him. The recognition he received at the awards reflects the effort, resilience and commitment he has demonstrated throughout his apprenticeship."
Known for mentoring fellow apprentices and leading by example, Nick embodies the resilience, humility and determination that apprenticeships are built on. His story is a reminder that success is not defined by where you start, but by your willingness to keep moving forward.
TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech (RTO 0275) General Manager Stephen Gates said Nick's achievements reflected the qualities that make apprenticeships such a powerful pathway to success.
"Nicholas' journey demonstrates the life-changing impact of vocational education and apprenticeships," Stephen said.
"To be recognised as a finalist in three highly competitive categories and to take home two of the night's most prestigious awards is an outstanding achievement. He has overcome significant personal and professional challenges while maintaining an unwavering commitment to his training, and that perseverance has rightly been recognised through these well-deserved awards."
From overcoming self-doubt to receiving the highest honour of the night, Nick's apprenticeship journey is changing not only his own future, but inspiring others to believe that with perseverance, hard work and the support of those around them, great things are possible.