Jennifer, who recently took out the Regional competition in Painting and Decorating, competed against eleven other hopefuls on Friday at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. The National WorldSkill titles were run over three days with over 500 competitors in 50 different categories and attracted around 70,000 visitors.

Jennifer had extra challenges thrown at her while preparing for the competition. Just days before she was due to compete, her main trainer and supporter in her quest for Gold at the competition was struck down with illness and was unable to attend the event.  As testament to Jennifer’s maturity and persistence she was able to continue with her preparation and compete to the best of her ability.

Jennifer is a third year apprentice in what is often seen as a male dominated trade, and works at Lake Macquarie Council as an apprentice painter. She has been undertaking intensive training at Tighes Hill TAFE to perfect her skills and designs.

Jennifer has been so dedicated to her training and she has turned her own home into a training canvas. She says ‘I practiced my painting and wall papering on every wall in my house. It looked strange but it meant I could train even when I was at home and I didn’t have to wait until I got to work or TAFE!”

Ian Vickery who has been involved in WorldSkills for over 22 years has seen many apprentices over the years and believed Jen has got what it takes to be successful in her chosen trade. “She is one of the best young apprentices I have seen for many years. She has got an exceptional level of skill and she loves what she does which makes all the difference.”

Phil Petersen, Group Training Manager from NovaSkill, says “Jennifer’s achievements to date are outstanding. Not only is she developing into a great tradesperson, she is giving the males in her field a run for their money. It is excellent to see young women succeeding in non-traditional trades as they become role models for other young females interested in apprenticeships.”