Wayne wins the 2010 Snap-on Tools Apprentice of the Year Award

After succeeding in making it to the finals of last year’s competition, St Clair local Wayne Grima, 19, has gone one step further in winning the Snap-on Tools Apprentice of the Year Award for 2010.

 

Wayne, who has just completed his motor mechanic apprenticeship at Wetherill Park College at the South Western Sydney Institute of TAFE, competed against nine other young apprentice finalists from across Australia and New Zealand to win the coveted title.

 

The Snap-on Tools Apprentice of the Year program awards excellence amongst third and fourth year auto electricians, motor mechanics, spray painters and panel beaters. Entrants compete on their ability to excel in their chosen field and are judged by industry experts from Summernats, NRMA Insurance, Rocket Industries and Street Machine magazine.

 

The competition commenced on 15 April with 47 talented applicants vying for the prestigious title. As the winner of this year’s first place, Wayne will receive a prize including $9,000 worth of Snap-on tools and products and an exclusive experience at Summernats festival.

 

Wayne, who grew up around cars, said “It is an amazing feeling to have won this year’s Snap-on Tools Apprentice of the Year Award. I really thought I had a great chance at winning this year and I strongly believe I will be involved with the auto scene for my whole life. I hope that I can inspire other young apprentices through my achievement, I’d really like to share my passion for building cars with other people.”

 

Steve Jones, National Sales Manager, Snap-on Tools, said, “Fulfilling an apprenticeship requires hard work and complete commitment. To try again this year and finally win the award is a testament to Wayne’s determination and passion for the industry.

 

“The Apprentice of the Year Award recognises the inspirational role that these young people play in the industry. Apprentices are a fundamental part of the automotive industry’s future and will ensure that a high level of trade skills is retained in Australia.”