This year National Skills Week (celebrated 25-30th August) asks us to ‘Explore all the Options’ when it comes to choosing a career path.
Eli, a student at The BUSY School Shailer Park campus was given the opportunity to explore skill paths through career mentoring support and work experience opportunities offered at the school. This inspired him to start a school-based apprenticeship as a plumber and he is now in the running as a finalist for School-based Apprentice award at the Queensland Plumbing and Gas Awards.
The Queensland Plumbing and Gas Awards event, which will be held on the night of 3 October, recognises the achievements of outstanding apprentices, plumbers, gas fitters, hydraulic consultants and individuals who provide exceptional quality of work to their customers. Based on Eli’s outstanding application, we believe he has a strong chance of winning!
“After becoming disengaged from my previous school, I made a conscious decision to turn my life around by fully committing to an apprenticeship in the plumbing and gas industry. Since starting at The BUSY School, I have worked incredibly hard to gain employment and develop my skills, showing dedication, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.
“Winning this award would not only recognise my progress but also inspire me to take on a leadership role among my peers. I am committed to setting a positive example by encouraging others who face similar challenges, sharing my experiences and promoting the value of perseverance and professionalism.”
As a first-year apprentice, Eli said of his career choice, “I was drawn to plumbing because it offers something deeply fulfilling—hands-on work, problem-solving and the satisfaction of creating something useful and lasting. From the moment I started my Certificate II, I knew I had found my path. My passion for the trade has only grown stronger as I’ve gained real-world experience.
“I’m always looking to develop my skills by staying curious, asking thoughtful questions, closely observing experienced tradespeople and accepting feedback with maturity and gratitude. The journey so far has been incredibly rewarding and I’m proud of the progress I’ve made.”
Eli has a bigger picture for his career path too, not only wanting to have his own business one day, he wants his business to provide a service that assists people who are socio-economically disadvantaged.
“I’m passionate about maintenance plumbing, particularly when it involves helping people in vulnerable situations. I find real purpose in being able to solve urgent plumbing issues that restore comfort and safety to people’s homes. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the work I do can have a positive impact on someone’s daily life.
“Looking ahead, I hope to run a community-focused plumbing service that offers affordable solutions to those who need them most. My goal is to use my skills not just as a tradesperson, but as someone who genuinely wants to make a difference in people’s lives.”
Watch Eli’s school-based apprenticeship journey!
Learn more about National Skills Week 2025
Learn more about the 2025 Queensland Plumbing and Gas Awards
