Ourimbah local Nelson Florimo was announced as the winner of the Apprentice of the Year at the NSW Training Awards last night.

The TAFE NSW student, who is employed by North Construction, is one of three TAFE NSW winners TAFE NSW winners that took home awards from the event.

NSW Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the strong showing by TAFE NSW students, including Nelson, was testament to their commitment to excellence in their chosen field.

“This is a wonderful result for Nelson and for TAFE NSW, and I have no doubt that Nelson will go on to be a great ambassador for the region, as well as the Carpentry industry,” Mr Lee said.

“While we rightly celebrate achievements on the sporting field, it’s just as important to celebrate achievements in the classroom and the workplace.”

Nelson Florimo said “My time at TAFE NSW has been a very interesting, exciting and productive journey. My teachers are dedicated professionals who walk the extra mile to nourish me with the skills and experience in my trade. I’m looking forward to what the future holds for me in my career.

“I encourage those who have a passion for something to give it a go and make a career out of it.”

Mr Lee said he was delighted that so many of the award winners were from TAFE NSW and that the strong results at this year’s awards were a clear demonstration of the high-quality education and training provided by Australia’s largest training provider.

“TAFE NSW is the leading skills provider in the state, delivering relevant, high-quality, practical and creative training to grow the NSW economy and skill the workforce of the future,” Mr Lee said.

“Nelson is testament to the depth of talent and exciting career opportunities on offer through vocational education and training pathways.”

The NSW Training Awards celebrate the excellence of apprentices, trainees and students undertaking vocational education and training.

All NSW Training Award winners will proceed to the coveted Australian Training Awards which will be held in Brisbane this November.