Earlier this year, the South Australian automotive industry came together to celebrate its future workforce at the 2025 MTA Graduation and Awards – a night that honoured the achievements of apprentices, employers, trainers and education partners.
Held on Friday 4 April at the Wolf Blass Event Centre in Morphettville, the event welcomed over 550 attendees, including graduates, families, training partners and industry leaders. Nearly 200 apprentices officially graduated, and 49 finalists were recognised across 17 award categories, making it one of the largest and most prestigious automotive training events in the country.
Among this year’s standout winners were students and educators with strong ties to schools and VET programs, highlighting the critical role that VET Coordinators and school-based pathways play in preparing young people for successful careers in the industry.
VET Coordinator of the Year: Annasofia Hamilton – Urrbrae Agricultural High School
Annasofia Hamilton was named the 2025 VET Coordinator of the Year in recognition of her ongoing support for students pursuing automotive pathways.
As the VET Career Pathways Coordinator at Urrbrae Agricultural High School, Annasofia played a key role in the successful reintroduction of the Certificate II in Automotive Servicing program at the school, working closely with the MTA to make it happen. Her proactive approach, professionalism, and genuine commitment to student outcomes made her a standout nominee and a valued partner of the MTA school pathways team.
Most Outstanding School-Based Apprentice of the Year: Sophie Duell – mteSA / Eastside Auto Body
At just 16, Sophie Duell received the 2025 Most Outstanding School-Based Apprentice of the Year award. Employed by the Murraylands Training & Employment Association of SA (mteSA) and hosted by Eastside Auto Body, Sophie impressed from the outset with her strong work ethic, maturity, and eagerness to learn.
She consistently embraced in-house training, demonstrated a sharp eye for detail, and took workplace health and safety seriously – qualities that made her a valuable part of the team and a deserving winner.
VET in Schools Student of the Year: Samuel Thomas – Underdale High School
Samuel Thomas, a student from Underdale High School, was awarded the 2025 VET in Schools Student of the Year. Throughout his Certificate II training, Samuel stood out for his reliability, teamwork, and willingness to support his peers – especially those facing challenges in the course.
His dedication helped him build strong technical and interpersonal skills, and shortly after completing the program, he secured an apprenticeship with Cavpower to continue his journey in the industry.
These achievements highlighted just how important school-based programs and VET Coordinators are in supporting the next generation of automotive professionals. The MTA thanks all coordinators for the work you do – your ongoing commitment is helping shape the future of our industry.
