ATEC congratulates TAFE SA for winning National Large Training Provider of the Year Award

ATEC has warmly congratulated TAFE SA on being named the National Large Training Provider of the Year at the 2024 Australian Training Awards. This remarkable achievement highlights the strength and quality of South Australia’s vocational education sector and reinforces the state’s position as a leader in training excellence.

As a finalist in the South Australian Training Awards for Large Training Provider of the Year, ATEC acknowledges TAFE SA’s achievement, which reinforces the calibre of large training organisations in South Australia. The success of both ATEC and TAFE SA reflects the sector's commitment to developing a skilled workforce for the future.

“Congratulations TAFE SA on recognition as the nation’s best large training provider,” stated Greg Bassani OAM, ATEC CEO today on hearing about the big win. “While we compete in the same sector, the success of South Australian training providers, including TAFE SA, demonstrates the high standards we are striving to maintain in our efforts to deliver quality education and training.”

In addition to being a finalist in the SA Training Awards, ATEC’s award successes this year highlight the outstanding achievements of its unique apprentice training, exceptional trainers and quality culture. ATEC received multiple finalist awards within the SA Training Awards, including VET Trainer of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Trainee of the Year, and Large Training Provider of the Year, showcasing the outstanding training capability and hard work of its team.

ATEC electrical apprentice Mack Fielke further demonstrated excellence by winning the National NECA Apprentice of the Year – Industrial Award, following his success at the NECA State Awards where ATEC apprentices were also awarded runner-up and third place. ATEC carpentry apprentices have also been recognized at the Master Builder South Australia Excellence Awards, with Sam Rains winning the top award and Jasmin Stewart taking home the Hi-Viz Women Tradeswoman of the Year Award, highlighting the exceptional talent fostered at ATEC.

“Winning these awards reflects the high calibre of training and the commitment of our apprentices and trainers to training excellence,” said Mr Bassani. “Mack, Sam, and Jasmin are just a few examples of the outstanding results that flow on from our quality approach to vocational education and training.”

As part of its mission to change people’s lives through education, ATEC plays a critical role in contributing to the economic prosperity of South Australia. By equipping apprentices with the skills and qualifications required by the construction and manufacturing sectors, ATEC helps build a workforce that drives growth contributing to the state’s economic prosperity.

It is relevant to note that ATEC is addressing the growing demand for skilled tradespeople in South Australia's construction industry in a very constructive way. Its new state of the art Carpentry Centre of Excellence is nearing completion and represents a proactive response to the construction labour shortage challenge. With a $300,000 government grant co-investment from the South Australian Government, ATEC is expanding its Lonsdale training facility by 750 square meters to provide more comprehensive training to apprentices in the carpentry trade.

Mr Bassani expressed urgency for the project, stating, "The completion of the facility will mark a significant milestone for ATEC and the South Australian construction industry. We are excited to be at the forefront of addressing the shortage of skilled tradespeople and contributing to the state's economic growth, particularly in light of the identification of labour."

“ATEC is not just about training—it’s about changing people’s lives and opening doors to new opportunities,” Mr Bassani added. “We are proud of the role we play in developing a skilled workforce that contributes to the prosperity of South Australia and beyond.”

ATEC remains committed to providing top-tier training that equips apprentices with the skills needed to succeed in their respective industries, continuing to raise the bar for vocational education in South Australia.