Emily sets the wheels in motion for success in her apprenticeship 

With a vibrant and energetic spirit reflected in her bright orange workwear, Emily is a determined young woman who has embarked on a rewarding career, carving her niche, and establishing her place in a primarily male-dominated industry. 

Emily is nearing her second year as a Heavy Vehicle Mechanic Apprentice, and her grounded nature, passion, and enthusiasm for developing her skills are evident in every task she undertakes. These qualities not only fuel her personal growth but also inspire those around her. 

Alongside her apprenticeship, she’s diving into her studies too through a Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology and utilising the support of Bamara, a First Nations Specialist Apprenticeship Connect Provider which is helping her through mentoring, and the support she needs to complete her apprenticeship. 

Through these services offered by Bamara, First Nations apprentices like Emily, as well as their employers across New South Wales, benefit from invaluable support and guidance that enhances their apprenticeship experience. 

Emily is honing her skills and building up a career at Tefol, a family-owned business boasting hundreds of years of combined experience servicing the mining and construction industries in the Hunter Valley. The team at Tefol is committed to excellence and quality, and they have a rich history of providing apprenticeship pathways for aspiring tradies.  

“Emily has demonstrated her enthusiasm for her Apprenticeship as an Automotive Electrician from day one,” said Tefol HR & WS Manager, Gary Brown.

“Her willingness to partake in all things Auto electrical have seen her bloom in the role.

“Emily is safety conscious with a great safety record and she is a great team player.

“It’s a pleasure to have Emily in the team and she is a terrific long term prospect for Tefol.”

Lending a helping hand during Emily’s apprenticeship has been Bamara First Nations Mentor, Kain. When they connected in September 2024, Kain emphasised the advantages of the holistic mentoring and personal support services that Bamara offers First Nations apprentices. This reassurance helped Emily understand the valuable support available to her.  

Kain also informed Emily about additional entitlements that First Nations apprentices like her could access, such as the ABSTUDY Incidental Allowance. He took the time to explain all the available incentives and resources she could use to ensure she felt at ease throughout her apprenticeship.  

He has been a constant source of encouragement for Emily by providing guidance and reliable support at work, always available for a yarn whenever she needs it.  

“Working with Emily is a breath of fresh air. It’s not every day you see someone her age, under 18, handling her workload and getting awesome feedback from her boss,” said Kain.  

“She’s really proving that young women can thrive in this industry. I see her as a role model, and it’s inspiring to see her keep up with the guys.  

“I’m super proud of her determination—it makes my job so much easier knowing she’s on track.”

About Australian Apprenticeship Support Services

Bamara is a First Nations Specialist Provider of Australian Apprenticeship Support Services, a free service which we deliver across New South Wales.

If you’re a First Nations apprentice/trainee or an employer, we will support you to get the most out of an Australian Apprenticeship.