Andrew’s commitment to teaching recognised at CQ Regional Queensland Training Awards
By Greg Chapman
For 20 years Andrew Abbas has mentored Central Queensland’s future tradespeople as a metal fabrication teacher and his dedication has finally been recognised with a Regional Queensland Training Award.
Andrew, who was named VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year, was one of four CQUniversity TAFE winners at the awards, held at the Rockhampton Leagues Club on 26 July.
Based at CQU’s Emerald campus, Andrew is a proud VET educator, leading apprenticeship programs alongside industry in the region and various VET-in-Schools (VETiS) courses.
“I am truly humbled,” Andrew said.
“I am very privileged to have been the recipient of such an award, and I am very grateful to our clients and stakeholders who have recognised my capability and value to VET Training - this means so much to me.”
Andrew mentors students from diverse backgrounds and implements innovative teaching methods.
His contributions to programs like the Glencore Apprenticeships and regional partnerships promote quality education and community engagement across the VET sector.
“I have always been committed and passionate about Vocational Educational and Training and I am cognisant of its important place in the education space,” he said.
“Winning this award has solidified the fact, that not accepting mediocrity and upholding standards of excellence pays off with rewards for, the students, clients and myself.”
Deputy Vice-President of VET Operations Peter Heilbuth congratulated Andrew on his award.
“It’s always especially exciting to win the VET Teacher of Trainer of the Year Award. Great teachers and educators are the most important factor in differentiating a mediocre learning experience from one that changes lives,” Peter said.
“Congratulations and thanks to Andy Abbas for his excellent teaching and learning prowess!”
The other winners were:
Certificate III in Business graduate Chloe Hutchinson, who received the Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year award. Chloe completed her CQU TAFE studies through a traineeship with Gladstone Regional Council.
Livingstone Shire Council employee and proud Bailai woman Kylie Johnston won the Vocational Student of the Year category for her efforts while studying a Certificate III in Horticulture at CQU.
CQU Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician/Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control student Maddison Petrie took out the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year category. Maddison balances full-time work, study and parenting while completing qualifications in by Shell QGC.
The winners will now go on to compete at the State Finals of the Queensland Training Awards, to be held in Brisbane on 13 September. CQUniversity is also a finalist in Large Training Provider of the Year category at the State Finals.
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