RCT’s Mount Isa Branch Field Service Technician, Jake Saliba has taken out the 2024 Light Automotive Apprentice of the Year at the recent Tafe Queensland’s Trade Excellence Awards held recently.
The award recognises Jake as an outstanding trade student for the region and was presented in a ceremony held at TAFE Queensland’s Mount Isa campus.
Jake, who started with RCT in early 2019 was one of the first apprentices the Queensland branch had, had in years and has proven to be a great asset to the team.
This was Jake’s second Apprenticeship he has embarked on, with the first being his electronics and communications trade. This second apprenticeship will solidify his place in his chosen field.
Nominated by Mount Isa Branch Manager, Danny Ballard for a myriad of positive reasons and stated Jake has displayed a commitment to professional development from the outset.
“The knowledge that Jake has amassed during the course of his apprenticeship has provided him with invaluable insight about how RCT's products integrate with the electrical systems on light vehicles and heavy earthmoving equipment for the purposes of condition monitoring, function control, and operator feedback,” said Mr Ballard.
Jake said he has really enjoyed his role at RCT over the last five years and everything he has learned.
“Its most enjoyable to be able to apply my learning to real-life scenarios on mining machinery at mine sites we service in the Mount Isa region,” he said.
The Light Automotive Apprentice of the Year said he appreciated the nomination, as it was a great recognition of all his hard work.
He added that he enjoyed the work he did but a big part of that is because he gets to work with such a great team at the Mount Isa branch.
“They’re a great bunch of people and hard workers and we all get along really well.”
Prior to undertaking his Automotive Apprenticeship, Jake completed his electronics and communications trade and will complete this second apprenticeship as an auto electrician next year.
Mr Ballard added that Jake exemplifies the model employee - he's punctual, motivated, highly competent, and possess great interpersonal communication skills.
“In short, Jake is the consummate professional and everyone at RCT Mount Isa is grateful for his ongoing contribution to our team and we're very proud to support him through this chapter in his professional journey.”
The RCT team couldn’t be prouder of Jake’s thoroughly deserved achievement.
