The future of Western Australia’s construction industry was in the spotlight on Friday, August 8, as 36 finalists were recognised at the 2025 Skill Hire & NextGen Skills Construction Industry Training Awards Night.
The prestigious event celebrated achievements in training and employment within the construction sector, acknowledging the outstanding contributions of apprentices, host employers, and training providers.
Across the evening, 17 awards were presented, with finalists representing a diverse range of trades and pathways.
One of the most significant honours of the night, the 2025 Construction Training Fund (CTF) Construction Apprentice of the Year Award, went to Banjo Duffett, praised for his workmanship and professional growth.
Duffett, also named Beyond Tools Carpentry Apprentice of the Year, has already been recognised as a future leader in the industry.
Other standout winners included Molly Dyball, who received the Choice Building Products School-based Construction Pre-Apprentice of the Year Award.
Undertaking a plumbing pre-apprenticeship while gaining work experience with Beyond Plumbing and Gas, Dyball was commended for completing additional hours during school holidays and embracing every learning opportunity.
The PSQ Group Secondary School Construction Engagement Award was presented to John Forrest Secondary College, which has built an impressive track record of supporting pre-apprenticeships and encouraging students to explore construction career pathways.
Apprentice Shanarlah Pickett received the DeWALT Best Aboriginal and Torres Strait Construction Student Award.
Undertaking a boilermaker/welder apprenticeship with host employer Civmec, Pickett was acknowledged for combining technical ability with cultural leadership and a commitment to community.
Skill Hire CEO Ben Dahlstrom said the evening showcased the remarkable depth of talent shaping the state’s building and construction future.
“As we look to the future, it’s clear that the talent and expertise on display tonight will be instrumental in driving our industry forward, bringing innovative solutions, and shaping the construction landscape in Western Australia for years to come,” Dahlstrom said.
Award categories reflected the breadth of training across the sector, with recognition spanning apprenticeships in carpentry, bricklaying, plumbing, painting, and electrical trades, as well as initiatives in safety, collaboration, and employer excellence.
With passion and skill at the forefront, the 2025 Construction Industry Training Awards highlighted not only individual achievements but also the strong networks of schools, employers, and industry partners helping to build a resilient future workforce.
