The spotlight was on vocational education and training (VET) at the 2025 Zeal Futures Excellence Awards held last Friday night in Newcastle. The event celebrated the achievements of the company’s best apprentices, trainees, students, and businesses across New South Wales.
Among this year’s winners were four Hunter-based recipients, including Matthew Mullen, who was named Apprentice of the Year.
Matthew initially commenced mechanical engineering studies at university but chose a more hands-on pathway, completing an Engineering Mechanical apprenticeship. Since finishing his trade, Matthew has also completed a Certificate IV in Fluid Power and currently works as a mechanical fitter at Eraring Power Station.
Last year, Matthew was selected to participate in the prestigious National Today’s Skills: Tomorrow’s Leaders Program in Canberra, recognising the country’s top apprentices and trainees.
“Winning Apprentice of the Year is a phenomenal feeling,” Matthew said. “I never expected recognition, but it’s been really rewarding to have all the hard work and long hours acknowledged.”
“I started my apprenticeship with a clear goal and have deliberately shaped my journey to become the tradesman I am today. The great thing about this apprenticeship is that you get out what you put in. If you’re willing to do the hard yards and really engage with the experience, the rewards go far beyond just skills, it shapes your character and can even lead to greater financial opportunities.”
“I wouldn’t be who I am today without my apprenticeship, and I definitely wouldn’t have made it this far without the support of people like Tiarne and Rob at Zeal Futures, my trainers, and all the supervisors and tradespeople at Origin.”
Zeal Futures CEO Sharon Smith congratulated Matthew and all winners and finalists from the Hunter.
“At Zeal Futures, we create success stories, and the calibre of this year’s winners is proof of that,” she said. “Vocational education and training pathways like apprenticeships and traineeships give people access to hands-on learning for real jobs.”
“As technology advances and markets continue to shift, different skills will be in demand. Apprenticeships and traineeships will ensure we have a skilled workforce that is ready for tomorrow. And with people like Matt coming through the ranks, the future is in good hands.”
IMAGE | Zeal Futures 2025 award winners
