News & Events
ACE apprentice takes top honours
Tuesday 3 August 2010
Kangan Institute apprentice panel beater Jai Felinski was named the RACV Apprentice of the Year during a ceremony at the Institute's Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE) in July.
The annual award recognises the skills of outstanding individuals starting out in their career in the autobody repair industry in Victoria.
Nineteen-year-old Jai was nominated by his teacher Graham Taylor for his keen eye for detail, strong work ethic and his positive attitude.
RACV State manager Victorian Claims John Simpson said he was extremely pleased with the calibre of applications for the award this year.
"The objective of the Apprentice of the Year award is simple - to identify and reward the highest performing apprentices and to encourage them to act as role models, promoting careers in autobody repair," he said.
"Jai demonstrates the qualities we look for to sustain the future of our industry."
As the winner of the 2010 RACV Apprentice of the Year award Jai receives $5,000 in prize money to invest in his ongoing career development.
He intends to use the award to travel to Japan to visit the Subaru manufacturing plant and a number of autobody shops to learn about different repair processes.
His longer term goals are to complete a business management course which will enable him to progress into a management role.
Jai has also constructed a web site where people can share lifestyle experiences as one of his hobbies.
Kangan Institute CEO Ray Griffiths said an ongoing partnership with the RACV and the Jumpstart program is integral to promoting careers within the auto repair industry.
"Key areas for the future of automotive that have moulded the ACE concept are product and process innovation, education and training and the promotion of and communication within the automotive industry," he said.
"Through the ACE, Kangan Institute is an enthusiastic supporter of the RACV initiative, welcoming the opportunity to forge industry relationships to secure the viability of the automotive industry in Australia."
Visit Jumpstart Autobody Careers website for further information.
