Nominations are officially open for Capricorn Members to nominate their outstanding apprentices as Capricorn Rising Stars - don't let the mechanical apprentices dominate this year, nominate your refinish and body apprentices.
This is an opportunity for automotive workshops and repair centres to recognise, reward and retain apprentices for their ongoing effort and dedication. A nomination to Capricorn Rising Stars will not only benefit the individual but the whole team as it promotes and embeds a positive workshop culture, which rewards commitment and passion.
The prestigious achievement award recognises talented apprentices who show initiative, thirst for knowledge and commitment. The competition is open to all types of workshops and disciplines; from panel and fabrication to auto-electrical, general mechanical, heavy diesel and more.
Capricorn Group CEO David Fraser says he is proud of the competition. “Encouraging and acknowledging future leaders is an important part of growing and supporting the automotive industry.
“We know that finding and keeping apprentices is one of the big challenges for the industry. By celebrating apprentices, we hope to encourage more to join, and stay, in the industry,” he said.
2023 Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year, Chelsea Bowers encourages apprentices to consider applying.
“Absolutely just go for it. I found that the opportunities I had from getting to the finalist stage and being in the top five finalists were huge for my pathway, and just as valuable as winning,” Chelsea said.
The Capricorn Rising Stars competition highlights the importance of apprentices to the Australian and New Zealand automotive aftermarket industries. The competition also seeks to encourage new talent to join the industry, ultimately generating more qualified automotive repairers to ensure the industry’s continued future growth and strength.
Over $27,000 shared cash and prizes is up for grabs for the five finalists, overall winner and nominating workshops. Capricorn thanks long-term program sponsors Castrol, Repco and The Workshop Whisperer for taking part in this valuable automotive aftermarket industry recognition program.
Capricorn Members are encouraged to nominate their star apprentices at cap.coop/stars. Entries close on 30 April 2024. Capricorn will announce the Overall Winner in September 2024 with all five finalists announced in August.