Joint Winners take out top ATEC training award

Joint winners have taken out the highly coveted ATEC Apprentice of the Year Award, sponsored by SYC. Brad Duggin, a mechanical engineering apprentice, and Mack Fielke, an electrotechnology apprentice, have won the highly coveted Pat O'Reilly Memorial Apprentice of the Year Award.

The prestigious award, presented at ATEC’s annual awards ceremony, recognises apprentices who have demonstrated exceptional skills, commitment, and leadership in their trade and education. This year, two outstanding apprentices have been recognised for their outstanding contributions and dedication to their trade.

The announcement was made during ATEC’s annual training awards and graduation ceremony held at the Adelaide Convention Centre, South Australia, on 28 March. Presentations included 26 prestigious awards across four construction and manufacturing apprenticeship areas of carpentry, mechanical engineering, fabrication, and electrotechnology. 

Brad Duggin – A Future Leader in Engineering and Trade Development

Brad Duggin’s career path has been shaped by his hands-on experience working in the field as a leading hand. During this time, he gained valuable insights by frequently interacting with the tool room, which sparked his interest in the technical and creative aspects of tool-making. With six years of experience at Lincoln Plastics before starting his apprenticeship, Brad was inspired by the process of building something from scratch—an opportunity that resonated strongly with him.

When his employer offered him the chance to upskill, Brad eagerly embraced the opportunity to advance his career. Completing his apprenticeship has been a transformative experience, allowing him to develop valuable skills and open doors to new professional opportunities. Brad’s biggest academic achievement to date is earning his trade qualification, a milestone that reflects his ongoing dedication and passion for his trade. Notably, he has been a finalist for the prestigious ATEC awards for two consecutive years, further demonstrating his commitment to excellence.

Looking ahead, Brad is set to pursue a Certificate IV after returning from a major professional project in Cambodia, where his company has entrusted him with the responsibility of project management. This opportunity marks another significant step in Brad’s impressive career trajectory.

"Brad exemplifies the spirit of excellence and commitment that we strive to foster in all our apprentices," stated ATEC's CEO, Greg Bassani OAM. "Embarking on an apprenticeship as a mature age student and then being asked to manage a start-up project overseas stands as a testament to the transformative power of vocational education and training – it changes people’s lives," added Mr Bassani.

Mack Fielke – A National Award-Winning Apprentice with Leadership Potential

Mack Fielke, who has already received national recognition as the winner of the 2024 NECA Apprentice of the Year Award, is also being recognised for his exceptional performance in the ATEC Apprentice of the Year Award. Unlike Brad, Mack embarked on his apprenticeship in Year 10 at school. He has shown remarkable maturity, dedication and leadership throughout his apprenticeship in the electrotechnology sector. As a 4th-year apprentice, Mack has not only excelled in his technical skills but has also stepped into leadership roles, constantly seeking opportunities to improve and lead his peers.

His employer, EDC, has acknowledged his excellence, which has led to his involvement in major projects across South Australia, particularly on the Eyre Peninsula. Mack is committed to lifelong learning, recently being selected for the prestigious Today's Skills, Tomorrow's Leaders program in Canberra, where he developed key leadership skills.

Mack’s commitment to his craft and ongoing education is evident as he continues to excel in the NECA awards, and he is currently considering pursuing a dual trade in refrigeration and air conditioning. His dedication to growth and improvement makes him an outstanding role model for aspiring apprentices.

"Brad and Mack are shining examples of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and a passion for learning," said Greg Bassani OAM, CEO of ATEC. "Their commitment to excellence in their respective fields is truly inspiring. These awards highlight their exceptional achievements, not only in their technical abilities but in their leadership and their commitment to helping others succeed along the way. We are incredibly proud to have them as our joint winners of the 2025 Apprentice of the Year Award.”

Selected from a pool of highly talented finalists, including Thomas Videon (Fabrication) and Tom Smart (Carpentry), the judges had a tough time deciding a winner from an exceptional pool of candidates. After many lengthy meeting it was decided to award the top accolade of ATEC’s trainer awards to joint winners. 

The winner’s stories serve as an inspiration to aspiring apprentices everywhere, demonstrating the transformative impact of vocational training and the boundless opportunities available in the trades regardless of age.

Mr Bassani encourages all who would like to join ATEC’s list of award-winning apprentices to apply today. “At ATEC, we are committed to pursuing excellence in all that we do, and it's one of our core values. We welcome all suitable applicants for apprenticeships regardless of age, gender or prior learning experience,” said Mr Bassani.

Mr Bassani expanded on the benefits of starting a carpentry apprenticeship by adding that apprenticeships can take you anywhere – they’re a stepping stone to a dynamic and exciting future career. “Most apprentices embark on lifelong learning on day one of their apprenticeship. Once an apprenticeship is completed, it’s not unusual for them to start their own businesses, and many go on to further study,” explained Mr Bassani.

“ATEC trade graduates who have also gone on to complete a higher education qualification are highly valued by employers because of their deep insight into all aspects of their industry,” stated Mr Bassani. “Starting with a trade qualification, gaining valuable onsite experience and then tackling higher education also appeals to school leavers.”

The ongoing boom in the construction industry has boosted ATEC’s apprentices resulting in a 30% increase in the last two years at ATEC, bringing the total number being trained to over 1,500. “Due to the unprecedented number of carpentry apprentices, we’re expanding our Lonsdale training facility by establishing a 750 square metre Carpentry Centre of Excellence,” said Mr Bassani. 

“We plan to have the new facility up and mid-year, providing an all-weather training environment to cater to the education needs of Adelaide metro, southern regional areas, and the Fleurieu Peninsula.  The Carpentry Centre of Excellence will be a cutting-edge facility equipped with the latest technology and training equipment complemented by our experienced VET trainers. It will offer comprehensive, hands-on training that aligns with the highest industry standards, ensuring our apprentices are well-prepared for successful careers in the construction industry. 

ATEC is one of South Australia’s quiet success stories. From fledgling beginnings in a small building in Largs Bay in 1989, over the years ATEC has grown to be a thriving training entity. Today it operates two well-equipped facilities strategically situated in Ottoway in the Northwest and Lonsdale.

All ATEC staff are passionate about the provision of the highest level of training and associated services to ensure that students leave with the maximum potential to be the best that they can be, by utilising skills and knowledge they have obtained through their apprenticeship.

ATEC trainers are all highly skilled in their field of delivery, are industry experienced and are strongly focused on “Changing People’s Lives” as each student begins their journey of skills development. 

Proudly South Australian, ATEC has more than 35 years of experience in “Changing People’s Lives.”

See the full gallery of ATEC Training Awards winners here.