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WesTrac trainee named WA School-based Apprentice of the Year
A decision to pursue hands-on learning while completing high school has earned 18-year-old Marlissa White one of Western Australia’s highest vocational education honours, with the WesTrac trainee named WA School-based Apprentice of the Year.
Presented at the WA Training Awards in Perth last week, the award recognises Marlissa’s dedication, growth and success throughout WesTrac’s metro School-Based Traineeship Program, which provides 5 students with the opportunity to complete a Cert II in Automotive Services Technology.
“I’m honestly still shocked and incredibly proud,” Marlissa said.
“There were so many talented people nominated, so being recognised like this means so much to me.
“It was just a reminder of how far I’ve come throughout my traineeship, and how grateful I am to be in this program with WesTrac. It makes me even more excited for what’s ahead.”
Like many students approaching the end of school, Marlissa wasn’t certain which career path she wanted to take, but she knew she was looking for an alternative to full-time university study.
Through WesTrac’s metro School-Based Traineeship Program, she gained practical workplace experience while completing her high school education, rotating through multiple workshops before discovering a passion for auto-electrics.
“By attending three different workshops, I’ve gained so much knowledge and been able to find the right career path for me,”
Marlissa said.
“I started in Lot 88 with the big trucks and then moved into auto-electrics, which is now what I want to pursue moving forward.”
Her success in the program has since led to a full apprenticeship with WesTrac commencing in 2027.
WesTrac Apprentice Manager, Olivia Forknall said Marlissa’s achievement highlights the value of providing young people with opportunities to explore meaningful career pathways while still at school.
“Marlissa’s award is incredibly well deserved and reflects the dedication, curiosity and positive attitude she has demonstrated throughout her traineeship,” she said.
“Programs like our School-Based Traineeship give students the opportunity to experience different trades, build confidence and develop practical skills in a real workplace environment.
“Marlissa’s journey is a fantastic example of what’s possible when young people are given the chance to explore their interests, and we’re looking forward to seeing her continue her WesTrac journey as an auto electrician apprentice.”
Marlissa hopes her achievement encourages other students, particularly young women, to consider a career in the trades.
“Don’t be afraid to go into a male-dominated industry,” she said.
“It can be daunting but go into it open-minded and try it out. You never know until you try.”
As demand for skilled workers continues to grow, Marlissa’s story demonstrates the important role vocational education and school-based training programs play in creating pathways from the classroom to rewarding careers.
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As one of the largest authorised Cat equipment dealers in the world, WesTrac provides customers with a wide range of mining and construction equipment as well as comprehensive whole-of-life management solutions designed to make owning and operating equipment as easy, profitable and safe as possible. With more than 4,500 staff, WesTrac is focused on long-term customer relationships and a dedication to customer service, safety, quality and the environment.
To achieve this, we commit to building better together through collaboration and collective action. Helping customers achieve their own ESG objectives to reduce emissions through product advancements and technology solutions. This shared goal of a sustainable future for all is why we are focused on Responsibility, Advancement, Community, Inclusivity, Development and Solutions, as a means to deliver long-term positive success for the environment, customers, team members, stakeholders and the wider community.
Community development and support is an important part of the WesTrac philosophy, and we are proud to support local activities, events and charities in the regions we are based. As part of SGH Ltd, WesTrac also has strong alliances with other leading Australian businesses, including Seven West Media, Boral, Coates and SITECH.
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