Close×

This year's Male and Female Rising Star (dual award) is once again sponsored by ABB Australia Pty Ltd.

The company's business unit manager for ABB Drives, Michael Briggs, said that as an organisation in the business of pioneering technology it is important to recognise up and coming talent.

ABB already nurture young Australians through its Graduate Engineering Program (GEP) which has been running for more than 10 years.

"The GEP provides young engineers with the opportunity to experience three six-month rotations across ABB's businesses, with one of them taking place overseas," Briggs said.

"ABB is also committed to Indigenous Australians through its mentoring program for Indigenous high school students helping them transition into university, training or employment at the same rate as all Australians.

"A world class organisation requires world class talent. That's what our customers expect so rewarding excellence within our organisation is key to attracting and retaining that talent."

Briggs said the Rising Star category uncovers the high performers within the industry. He said awards programs can help motivate young people to strive for even more.

To recognise diversity within the HVACR industry, Briggs said it is important to have a dual award that recognises young men and women individually.

"Increased diversity makes HVACR a more attractive employment destination, thereby attracting the best technical and commercial talent coming out of our trade schools and universities," he said.