James Fallon is a young man on a fast track to success in the construction industry.
The 18-year-old is currently in the second year of his apprenticeship and has already made impressive strides in his plumbing career since attending the Australian Industry Trade College (AIT) where he graduated last year with the school’s very own Apprentice of the Year Award.
He was also named Construction School Student of the Year at the Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) Excellence Awards last November in recognition for his diligence in training.
Mr Fallon said he had grown steadily in confidence under the guidance of Loganholme business OS plumbing where he is now working full time.
“It’s been exciting to undertake many different types of plumbing work across Queensland and I am now working on units in Redbank Plains which is an entirely new experience,” he said.
“You are always learning as a tradesman and no two days are the same which is a great motivator to keep working hard and learning new skills.
“Like any job, it has its ups and downs - there are moments of stress but it’s good to overcome them and keep your eye on the prize.”
Mr Fallon recalled the moment when he was named the winner of the Hutchinson Builders Award for Construction School Student of the Year in front of his peers at the CSQ Excellence Awards.
“To be rewarded for my efforts was a real honour but I think at the end of the day I was happiest to make my boss and family proud.”
While the recognition has been a confidence boost, James said the chance to make connections with fellow tradesmen was more rewarding than any trophy he could receive.
“Meeting fellow young construction workers was the most exciting part because I was able to make connections that I will keep for years to come,” he said.
“I definitely recommend the ceremony for up-and-coming apprentices looking to build long-lasting friendships which can open the door to new opportunities.”
Nominations for the 2016 Construction Skills Queensland Excellence Awards are now open and close on September 16.
For more information or to nominate visit www.csq.org.au.