More than 10 CDU VET staff and students recognised in NT Training Awards

Charles Darwin University (CDU) staff and students in Vocational Education and Training (VET) have been recognised as finalists in the 2022 Northern Territory Training Awards.

More than 10 CDU students studying a VET course have been selected as finalists in categories including the Austin Asche Apprentice of the Year, School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year, VET in School Student of the Year and Vocational Student of the Year.

The finalists from CDU are studying in areas such as mechanics, electrotechnology, hairdressing, retail cosmetics, business, community engagement and fitness.

CDU is also a business finalist for Large Training Provider in this year’s awards.

CDU VET Lecturer in Beauty Therapy, Debra Street, has been named a finalist for the VET Teacher Trainer of the Year.

Ms Street has been teaching at CDU’s Alice Springs Campus for five years and said she was delighted to receive the recognition.

“I absolutely love what I do, and to be recognised within the NT business community is above and beyond, so I am truly humbled to receive this honour,” Ms Street said.

“Beauty therapy is my life-long love affair. As a finalist in the NT Training Awards, I am looking forward to being a proud VET Training ambassador to inspire the next generation of beauty therapists.”

The NT Training Awards has been showcasing the Territory’s business and training sector for the past 67 years and is a prestigious achievement for students, trainers and training providers.

This year’s nominations were received from across the Territory including Darwin, Nhulunbuy, Yirrkala, Alice Springs and Batchelor.

CDU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Student and VET, Sam Jacob, said the award finalists were embodiments of the University’s increasing focus on VET and trades.

“As a dual-sector university, CDU is in a unique position to educate the future workforce in trades, which is essential to the Territory’s economic growth and social fabric,” Mx Jacob said.

“We are proud of the exceptional achievements and contributions by our VET students and staff, who stand out in their respective profession and field.”  

Minister for Business, Jobs and Training, Paul Kirby, congratulated the 2022 award finalists.

“The NT Training Awards are a fantastic opportunity to showcase businesses and individuals who demonstrate excellence in vocational education and training,” Minister Kirby said.

Winners will be announced at an awards gala on September 3, and each category’s winner will go on to compete in the national Australian Training Awards which will be announced on November 18.

CDU student in electrotechnology, instrumentation and control, Savanne Canobie, won the 2021 Australian Apprentice of the Year Award and represented CDU and the Territory on a national level.