Cabinet maker claims top training award

CABINET maker Trinity Kachel has been named Apprentice of the Year at the 2026 North Coast and Mid North Coast Regional Training Awards, recognising her success in a traditionally male-dominated trade.

The awards were held at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre and celebrate excellence across the vocational education and training sector across the region.

 

Ms Kachel, who works with Sawtell Kitchens, was recognised for her achievements in cabinet making and timber technology.

She said the trade appealed to her because it combined technical precision with practical, hands-on work.

“I chose cabinet making as a career pathway because it offers a strong balance between technical precision and hands-on practical work,” she said.

 

“Throughout my apprenticeship, I have developed the ability to work independently, along with strong communication skills when working with co-workers, other tradespeople, and clients.”

Justin Booth took out the Trainee of the Year award for his work in the energy sector while completing a Certificate IV in Project Management Practice through Essential Energy and Apprenticeship Careers Australia.

He said the traineeship had provided valuable real-world experience while strengthening his understanding of project management.

“I was drawn to project management because I enjoy problem solving, coordinating work, and being involved in projects where I can see the real-world outcomes of what I have helped deliver,” he said.

“The qualification has given me a structured understanding of how projects come together, while the traineeship has allowed me to apply that learning immediately in a practical environment.”

 

NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan congratulated finalists and winners for their achievements.

“These awards recognise people who are building valuable skills, contributing to their workplaces and creating strong futures for themselves and their communities,” he said.

“Congratulations to all the finalists and winners for the dedication, hard work and leadership you have shown throughout your training journey.”

Other winners included Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year James Coates, School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year Lila Heyman, VET in Schools Student of the Year Charli Fowler, VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year Charles James and Vocational Student of the Year Kiara Watts.

The winners will now represent the North Coast and Mid North Coast region at the 2026 NSW Training Awards in August.