AWCI Apprentice Challenge Program: Building the Future of the Wall and Ceiling Industry
Overview
The AWCI Apprentice Challenge Program, proudly presented by AWCI Australia, is a premier initiative designed to showcase and celebrate the best and brightest apprentices in the wall and ceiling industry across Australia and New Zealand. As a national event held biennially, the challenge provides a platform for emerging talent to demonstrate their skills, gain industry recognition, and inspire the next generation of tradespeople.
Purpose Statement
The AWCI Apprentice Challenge Program is dedicated to fostering excellence, skill development, and professional growth amongst wall and ceiling apprentices. The program aims to promote industry best practices, encourage lifelong learning, and recognise the contributions of apprentices to the sustainability and innovation of the wall and ceiling industry.
Phase 1: Regional/State-Level Competitions
- Events: Held annually in each state at participating TAFEs & RTOs – a state final will then be held to determine representatives.
- Challenge: Apprentices construct a technical plastering project from provided drawings and materials.
- Judging: Completed work assessed by expert judges, using clear, consistent criteria.
Phase 2: National Finals
- Event: Bi-annual, coinciding with AWCI Australia's National Conference.
- Participants: State-level winners from previous year.
- Challenge: Advanced technical plastering task with increased complexity. (Designed by Phil Cooymans).
- Apprentices must be an Apprentice member of AWCI Australia.
- Apprentices must hold a current indentured apprenticeship contract (or completed within 6 months prior).
- Employer approval is required for apprentice participation.
- Apprentices of all ages are eligible, provided they are actively undertaking formal training (no RPL/upskilling).
- Apprentices must fill in a disclosure statement.
Apprentice Responsibilities
Upon nomination, apprentices must:
- Secure written approval from their employer.
- Obtain written parental approval (if under 18).
- Provide own Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including safety boots.
- Provide own required tools and equipment for the challenge.
- Sign a participation agreement with AWCI Australia
Regional/State Winners
- Certificate, trophy, digital winner badge
- Recognition through AWCI Australia's social media and website
- Opportunity to represent their state at the National Final
National Winner
- Prestigious National Apprentice Challenge Trophy
- Recognition at the AWCI National Conference & Gala Awards
- Feature profile and recognition on AWCI Australia national platforms
- Career-boosting professional development opportunities
2025 AWCI & Siniat Apprentice Challenges - State Winners
TAS – Abbi O'Connor, TASBGAS
VIC - Hayden Lever, Comcraft Constructions
QLD - Damian Falconer, CRA Construction
SA - Joshua Kopeikin, Shotton Professional Interiors
WA - Jordan Brown, Trueline Ceilings
