RMIT University's School of Vocational Engineering recognised its most oustanding apprentices and students at its annual awards night recently. RMIT is one of the largest education providers in Australia training students for the air conditioning and refrigeration industry. Training institutions like RMIT and Australia's TAFE organisations play an important role in building the nation’s base of professionals in a wide array of vocational areas. Supporting these trades is Testo Australia, a company that has sponsored the "Outstanding Refrigeration Apprentice Award" for a number of years. Winners of this annual award receive instruments courtesy of Testo, introducing them to current technology and technical solutions that drive today's industry. This year's apprentice of the year winner was Alexander Mcguigan from the RMIT school of refrigeration, he was presented with his award by Testo service specialist, Akmal Zulkifli (pictured). A second year student, Zulkifli said Mcguigan has excelled as a student in every way. RMIT's School of Vocational Engineering and Trade has a keen focus on industry driven solutions which is strongly supported by Testo. Praj Perera, marketing manager at Testo Australia, said the company believes in industry-focused training and by forming partnerships with training institutions which allows the company to introduce students to new products. "Over the years, Testo has provided a wide range of equipment that is used to train students and drive their preparation for a successful career in HVAC&R trade," he said. As well as the refrigeration category sponsored by Testo there are also awards provided for plumbing, air conditioning and electrical programs. Professor Peter Coloe, Pro Vice-Chancellor Science, Engineering and Health and Vice-President of RMIT University, said the awards help to raise the bar. "These awards help engage the students’ families, friends and partners - many of whom have remarked on the high standard of staff and teachers in the School,” Professor Coloe said. The Best Third- Year Apprentice (Air Conditioning Refrigeration) went to Jarrod Snow while the Best First-Year Apprentice (Electrical) went to Katrina Palmer.
