A young Rathmines woman is getting ready to compete for a place in the International WorldSkills competition in London. 

Jennifer Saarenpaa, a 20 year old apprentice painter employed by Novaskill is set to compete at the National World Skill titles in Brisbane later this week.  Jennifer recently took out the Regional competition in Painting and Decorating and will compete against 11 other hopefuls on Friday at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. The National WorldSkill titles are run over three days with over 500 competitors in 50 different categories and will attract around 70,000 visitors.  The winner of the National title will go onto represent Australia at the International Skill Olympics to be held in London in 2011.

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

Jennifer has been so dedicated to her training and giving the National titles her best shot she has turned her own home into a training canvas. She says ‘I practice my painting and wall papering on every wall in my house. It looks strange but it means I can train even when I am at home and I don’t have to wait until I go to work or TAFE!”

Ian Vickery who has been involved in WorldSkills for over 22 years has seen many apprentices over the years and believes Jen has got what it takes to win the competition. “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.”