17 December 2025
South Metropolitan TAFE’s Thornlie campus was alive with precision, problem-solving and hands-on expertise as apprentices competed in the Vehicle Body Building Apprentice of the Year competition, celebrating the next generation of skilled automotive manufacturing tradespeople.
Held in the Vehicle Body Building Workshop, the full-day competition brought together eight high-performing apprentices nominated by their lecturers. All competitors are enrolled in the AUM30218 Certificate III in Automotive Manufacturing Technical Operations - Bus, Truck and Trailer, and are either in their third year or completing their apprenticeship.
The competition was initiated by the Heavy Automotive and Plant lecturing team, drawing on successful Apprentice of the Year models previously run in the building and construction sector. The aim was to shine a spotlight on vehicle body manufacturing trades, an area experiencing strong demand in Western Australia due to the growth of the resources sector.
A real-world industry challenge
Competitors were tasked with constructing a hydraulic tipper frame for the tray of a ute within a set timeframe, replicating real-world workplace conditions. Judging focused on practical, job-ready skills including:
- Fabrication and welding techniques
- Assembly and alignment
- Interpretation of drawings and specifications
- Planning and problem solving
- Safety practices
- Finishing and presentation
Employers of the apprentices were invited to attend the event, providing an opportunity to support their apprentices and see first-hand the high level of training and capability being developed at South Metropolitan TAFE.
And the winners are…
The competition concluded with the announcement of the following winners:
🥇 1st Place – Jack Cybula
🥈 2nd Place – Lyndsay Kirby
🥉 3rd Place – Lachlan Maher
Prizes were generously provided by industry partners, demonstrating strong industry support for vocational training. Awards included welding equipment, auto-darkening helmets, camp chair and table sets. Competitors were provided with a welding jacket for use during the competition, and additional promotional items.
Strengthening industry pathways
The Vehicle Body Building Apprentice of the Year competition highlights South Metropolitan TAFE’s commitment to industry-aligned training and elevating trades that are critical to Western Australia’s workforce needs. By providing apprentices with opportunities to demonstrate their skills in a competitive, supportive environment, the event reinforces the value of vocational education and strong industry partnerships.
With its successful debut, the competition sets a strong foundation for future events that continue to recognise excellence, promote the vehicle body manufacturing trade, and support the next generation of skilled workers.
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