Michaela Meade
A young Williamstown carpentry apprentice has been recognised as the 2021 Metropolitan Apprentice of the Year.
Jack Blokkerus was announced as the winner at the 2021 Master Builders Victoria (MBV) State Apprentice of the Year awards earlier this month.
As part of the awards, each candidate is interviewed by an expert panel about their work experience, knowledge, attitude and industry representation.
The overall prize of Metropolitan Apprentice of the Year is selected by the judges, who choose the most outstanding apprentice from the trade category winners.
Mr Blokkerus was nominated by his training provider Victoria University Polytechnic, and also won the prize for 2021 Apprentice of the Year for carpentry.
The judging panel said they were excited by the young carpenter’s passion for the job and his drive to succeed.
Mr Blokkerus said he was pleased to have his commitment recognised.
“You need the right mindset, and you need to have your heart set on wanting to be a builder,” he said.
“There are always challenges.
“I often have self-doubt, but I remind myself that I can do it.
“It’s all about solving the problem.”
MBV chief executive Rebecca Casson said it was wonderful to see the next generation pursuing professional development at such an early stage of their careers.
“Formal and informal learning opportunities are vital to professional development,” said Ms Casson.
“It’s particularly important in our industry, where becoming a registered builder is an integral part of the career progression of builders and tradespeople.
“It’s positive to see apprentices grasping opportunities to upskill early on.”
Mr Blokkerus was one of 12 apprentices who won awards on the night.
Nominations for next year’s awards will open in September 2021.
