Premier touts immeasurable career opportunities for apprentices
The Premier of Western Australia joined the MTA WA for a celebratory ‘Gala Dinner’ held at Fraser’s Kings Park. MC Basil Zempilas entertained more than 230 guests including influential industry members, award nominees, sponsors and dedicated contributors to the Motoring Industry.
Winners and finalists of the 2018 MTA WA Training Awards
Photo Credit: Murray Armenti
Premier Mark McGowan declared that the employability and skills of today’s motor trade apprentices were “beyond compare”, with apprentices afforded the ability to “do anything” and “go anywhere” due to the demand for their expertise.
MTA WA President David Dye spoke of a future-oriented focus, forecasting “Exciting times” and indicating the need for the industry to “Act now and move fast if we are to keep up with this rapid pace of technological advancement”. Award recipients Basil Scagliotta and Julie Wadley both emphasised the critical need for employers to train and upskill tomorrow’s leaders during their acceptance speeches.
The atmospheric occasion applauded the achievements of trainees, apprentices and the industry’s finest training employers. Gino’s Panel & Paint was awarded the prestigious ‘Employer of the Year’ title, with Dillin McQuade awarded ‘Apprentice of the Year’ and Ross Mace receiving the award for ‘Pre Apprentice of the Year’.
Julie Wadley was celebrated as the ‘2018 Motor Trade Association of WA Life Membership’ award recipient for her 40 years of tireless work in the industry. Julie was acknowledged for her proven record, having been an inspiring leader across various boards and regarded as a pioneering identity in the automotive sector. ‘Certificates of Appreciation’ were presented to Bob Pearce and Rob Webster for their assistance in furthering the work of the MTA WA, having served on the board for a combined 37 years. All award nominees and recipients were representative of some of the industry’s most tireless and selfless workers, all of whom deserving the recognition that the dinner provided.
The Motor Trade Association is proud to have hosted the event and would like to thank sponsors MTAA Super, Burson Auto Parts, AMA Apprenticeship & Traineeship Services, SP Tools and Our Auto. Their partnership is highly valued and appreciated by the MTA WA and its members alike. We would also like to thank all attendees and speakers for their presence at the prestigious occasion.
