At 40 years old, most people are settled into their careers but for one man, Christopher Reppel, it was the beginning of a transformation. What started as a home renovation project, quickly turned into a revelation. Now known online as ‘Midlife Carpentry’, Christopher’s inspiring apprenticeship journey proves that it’s never too late to follow your passion.
You can view Christopher’s ‘Midlife Carpentry’ YouTube channel below which has over 5k followers and is inspiring others interested in a trade apprenticeship.
A huge part of Christopher’s success was made possible thanks to local Cairns Employer MB Construction who put Christopher on as an apprentice. In particular, Christopher’s supervisor, Myles, whose support, mentorship, and belief have been instrumental in shaping both the experience and success of this midlife career change.
Christopher was recently awarded the Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year Award for his region at the recently held Queensland Training Awards.
A Late Start, Fuelled by Passion
After working on his own home renovation, something clicked for Christopher.
“A passion really hit hard during that project,” he says. “I realised I needed to do more of this.”
Taking the leap into a trade at the age of 40 wasn’t without fear. “It was scary, but I had to take the step. Nothing is forever, I had to give it a crack.”
With a strong belief and the support of his family, he pushed forward. “Getting through it for my family and myself was the biggest motivation to start with. Then passion took over.”
Changing Perspectives, Changing Lives
Apprenticeships aren’t just about learning skills they’re about shifting your whole perspective on life.
“I look forward to Mondays now,” he explains. “A trade is more than a job. It’s a lifestyle.”
That lifestyle shift included physical resilience and a mindset focused on progress.
“I always say, ‘build on legend’ – you just keep going, even when you feel like giving up.”
A standout memory? Working on an office fit-out with finished rosewood.
“The smell, the finish it was beautiful. Those moments reinforce why I love carpentry.”
Real Talk: What It Takes
There’s no sugarcoating the realities of working in the trades.
“You will be sore. You’ll get blisters, bruises, and have crap days. But the good days outweigh the bad.”
Christopher also emphasises that a toxic work environment shouldn’t dim your passion and that changing employers or speaking up is key,“If it doesn’t feel right change it. Speak up. It’s okay.”
He also busts the myth that trades are only for the young.
“Later in life, you want it more. You’ve got responsibilities, you know why you’re doing it. Plus, life experience is a benefit to employers.”
Improving the System
As an advocate for change, he believes the apprenticeship system needs modernising:
“It’s outdated and inconsistent across states and nationally. I’ve been lucky to work with a builder who covers a variety of work—that’s made a huge difference. I genuinely think apprentices should rotate through different businesses to build broader skills.”
From Site Work to Community Work
Beyond the worksite, his trade has helped him connect with the wider community. Through his YouTube channel, ‘Midlife Carpentry’, he’s documented his journey and inspired others to pursue their own.
“It’s been life changing. I want people to see that it’s okay to start later in life you really can change your life doing this.”
And the vision doesn’t stop there. As Apprentice of the Year, he hopes to grow the channel and give back to the community:
“I’d love to fund giveaways like tool vouchers, fuel cards – anything to support other apprentices out there.”
Advice for Career Changers
His advice for anyone considering a trade career in their 30s, 40s or beyond?
“Do it! Check your budget first, then just go for it. Nothing is forever you never know where you could end up.”
And when it comes to managing the physical demands of the job?
“Morning stretches are a must, along with regular exercise. Honestly, I move better now than before I started the trade.”
A Message to Employers and Policymakers
Christopher closes with a call for better support for apprentices.
“Money is always a hot topic. But support can mean many things. It can be in the way of fuel cards, tool vouchers, a decent wage. And just as important – understanding commitments. Family comes first, within reason. That includes school drop-offs, sick kids, special events. It all matters.”
Building a Life You Love
Whether you’re 18 or 48, this carpenter’s journey reminds us that fulfillment comes from doing what you love and backing yourself when it counts.
“It’s a lifestyle,” he says. “You work your Monday to Friday job, but you also help others outside of it. That’s what being in a trade is all about.”
So, if you’re standing at a crossroads, wondering if it’s too late to change direction?
As Christopher’s favourite motto encouragingly advises: “Build on legend and give it a crack”.
