On Friday, 8 August 2025, the spotlight was on Melbourne’s South Wharf as the residential building industry came together for the annual HIA–Stratco Victorian Apprentice Awards. The evening was filled with energy, pride, and recognition for the next generation of skilled tradespeople who are shaping the future of construction in Victoria.
Proudly presented by Stratco, the Apprentice Awards are more than a ceremony; they are a platform to acknowledge excellence, inspire innovation, and celebrate the passion that apprentices bring to their trades.
A Standout Winner: Caitlyn Goodman
The highest honour of the night, the Alec Fuller Victorian Apprentice of the Year, went to Caitlyn Goodman, a second-year carpentry apprentice with Proud Projects. Caitlyn impressed judges with her technical ability, project management skills, clear communication, positive outlook, and strong commitment to workplace safety.
Beyond her craftsmanship, Caitlyn stood out for her leadership potential. HIA Victoria’s Executive Director, Keith Ryan, described her as “an excellent role model and future leader in the industry,” expressing confidence that she will one day achieve her ambition of running her own building business.
Her achievement was even more remarkable as she also won the Second Year Carpentry category, making her recognition a testament to her dedication, skill, and drive to succeed.
Recognising Talent Across Every Stage
While Caitlyn’s story captured headlines, the night was also about celebrating apprentices at every stage of their journey. From first-year newcomers just starting out, to fourth-year apprentices ready to take on leadership roles, the awards highlighted the depth of talent across Victoria.
- Judges Rising Star & Fourth Year Joinery: Jessica Herrod (Eric Jones Stairbuilding Group)
- Fourth Year Carpentry: Riley Clifford (Gant Builders)
- Third Year Joinery: Paige Hunter (Eric Jones Stairbuilding Group)
- Third Year Carpentry: Campbell Eastwood (HIA Apprentices, hosted by VPM)
- Second Year Cabinetmaking: Sienna Scarpa (HIA Apprentices, Constructive Interior Finishes)
- First Year Joinery: Flynn Orchard (Eric Jones Stairbuilding Group)
- First Year Carpentry: Shintaro Umeki (JTW Building Group)
The HIA Apprentice Host Trainer award went to VPM, who were recognised for their commitment to developing apprentices through guidance, mentorship, and hands-on opportunities.
Together, these award recipients represent the wide range of skills, dedication, and innovation driving the industry forward.
Why Stratco’s Support Matters
For Stratco, supporting the HIA Victorian Apprentice Awards is about more than sponsorship; it’s about investing in the future of the building industry. By recognising and celebrating apprentices, Stratco reinforces the importance of training, mentorship, and career pathways for tradespeople.
Events like these also underscore the importance of partnerships among apprentices, host trainers, and businesses. They remind us that success in the building industry comes not only from skill, but also from teamwork, leadership, and shared vision.
As a proud partner of the awards, Stratco is committed to helping build strong foundations for apprentices and ensuring they receive the support they need as they grow into the future leaders of the construction industry.
Looking to the Future
The 2025 HIA–Stratco Victorian Apprentice Awards showed that the future of Victoria’s building industry is in capable hands. The enthusiasm and professionalism of the apprentices recognised this year set the tone for a bright future, where innovation and tradition come together to strengthen the industry.
Stratco congratulates Caitlyn Goodman, all award winners, and the businesses and trainers who support them daily. Their hard work, resilience, and commitment to excellence are shaping the future of construction in Australia, and we’re proud to stand alongside them on this journey.
