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Sam's building excellence
Sam Ederveen is a passionate carpenter who offers his advice and guidance to anyone considering an apprenticeship.
Carpenter Sam Ederveen, 25, works at Brendan Grant Homes and was a teenager when he decided to pursue a career in the construction industry.
"I had always enjoyed construction and manual arts classes in high school and wanted to take that enjoyment further, so I came to TAFE Queensland to complete a Certificate I in Construction (CPC10120) to get a general understanding of the industry," Sam said.
"The industry-leading teachers at TAFE instilled in me a passion for the work, and my successful completion became a very effective foot-in-the-door-type scenario, securing me an apprenticeship with one of the Housing Industry Association’s most awarded local builders."
"The most common recommendation I make to young people looking to get started in the trades is to set themselves up to receive apprenticeship offers from high-ranking companies."
"Apprenticeship providers look for people who show initiative and dedication, and a certificate I or other introductory qualification is a strong way to display those attributes," he said.
Sam, who was able to access free apprenticeships for under 25s funding, said he enjoyed his apprenticeship training at the TAFE Queensland Cairns campus.
"The skills I’ve learned and the mates I've made during my training have been irreplaceable and I would not be in the position I am now without it," Sam said.
"One of my greatest achievements has been completing my apprenticeship nearly six months early."
"My Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220) is a qualification that brings endless possibilities and the freedom of work assurance anywhere in the world."
"To further upskill, I have enrolled in a Certificate IV in Building and Construction (CPC40120) through TAFE Queensland and I hope to one day create my own construction company," he said.
Sam was the major winner at the TAFE Queensland 2023 Cairns Trade Excellence Awards, claiming the trophy for Building and Construction Apprentice of the Year and the event's top prize, Outstanding Apprentice of the Year.
"It feels excellent to be named the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year, it’s such an honour."
2023 Cairns Trade Excellence Outstanding Apprentice of the Year Sam Ederveen