Finding passion, perseverance, and power in the trades

When it comes to choosing a career, most people are told to pick one path and stick to it. But in reality? Careers aren’t straight lines, they’re winding roads, filled with detours, pit stops, and sometimes, bold leaps into the unknown.

That’s exactly what National Skills Week is all about: exploring all your options and realising there’s no single “right” way to build your future.

To showcase this, we are sharing the story of WesTrac apprentice, Amanda (Mandy) Coomber, who’s proving that chasing your passion can completely transform your career.

From hospitality to heavy machinery

Before picking up the tools, Mandy had already worked across government, hospitality, tourism, and manufacturing, but it wasn’t until she stepped into the world of mining and construction that something really clicked.

“I found my passion working on fixed plant. I wanted to learn more about mechanics and get hands-on.”

“I started out as a Trades Assistant at WesTrac, working alongside a team of diesel mechanics. Every day I looked forward to stripping down and rebuilding Caterpillar fleet products for Pilbara mine companies. That’s when I knew this was the career for me.”

Climbing the ranks

Mandy joined WesTrac in April 2021 as a Machine Rebuilds Trades Assistant, and just a few months later, stepped into an Apprentice Plant Mechanic role. Fast forward four and a half years, and she’s now fully qualified and graduating in September 2025.

Her hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed either, “Out of roughly 40 apprentices in my year, I ranked in the top 10 during WesTrac’s final assessments,” Mandy shares. A huge achievement in such a competitive field.

The role of trainers

Like any great story, this one isn’t just about the apprentice, it’s also about the mentors and trainers who helped along the way.

Reflecting on her trainers, Mandy says, “Trainers play a massive role. They don’t just teach the industry standards, but also make sure you understand compliance, theory, and the practical side. They adjust to your learning style and help fill in any gaps. It makes all the difference.”

Discovering inner strength

For Mandy, the apprenticeship has been as much about self-discovery as it has been about learning technical skills.

“I’ve found inner strength I didn’t know I had. Like replacing transmission hoses at 3am in the middle of winter, covered in oil, and still pushing through.”

“I’ve learned to communicate with people from all cultures, ages, and backgrounds.” “As a woman in a male-dominated industry, I’ve discovered my own worth, finding different ways to overcome challenges.”

Why National Skills Week matters

“It’s not just for school leavers. Career paths are constantly changing, and new opportunities are popping up all the time,” Mandy shares.

“You’re never too old to switch industries or start something new.”

That message is clear for students who might be sitting on the fence about university or a trade.

“Both run for around four years, but I find the big difference is: with a trade you get on-the-job training, paid work, and no HECS debt.”

“It’s important to pick something you love doing and can see yourself building a future in.”

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