More than 360 nominations were received from Capricorn Members across Australia and New Zealand, highlighting the impressive amount of young automotive industry talent that exists.
Brad Gannon, Capricorn CEO Automotive, emphasised the importance of apprentices for the future of the industry.
“At a time when the skills shortage continues to have a real impact across the entire automotive aftermarket, the Capricorn Rising Stars nominees’ commitment to excellence provides a major boost of confidence in the future of our industry.
“It is more important than ever to support young apprentices on their journey. A key aspect is showing and proving to young people that they can have a bright future in the industry.
“Narrowing down the field to the five most outstanding nominees was a very difficult task,” Brad stated.
Congratulations to the following apprentices who are the 2024 Capricorn Rising Stars top five finalists:
Cooper Bullin — Road Runner Mechanical Services
Dylan Sneddon — Auto Response
Marko Graovac — Hagans Auto Electrical Service
Megan Toia — Badgingarra Motors
Shalako Hauraki — UltraTune Balcatta
The Capricorn Rising Stars Award aims to recognise and reward outstanding technicians in the automotive aftermarket industry. Open to Capricorn Member businesses across Australia and New Zealand, this industry renowned award recognises apprentices who show initiative in the workshop, eagerness to learn and commitment to the auto industry. The judging process consisted of three separate rounds, with the final round involving industry experts.
Capricorn Rising Stars Top 5 Finalists and the Overall Winner will enjoy prizes supplied by this initiative’s long term dedicated sponsors Castrol, Repco and The Workshop Whisperer.
“By shining a light on high performing apprentices, the Capricorn Rising Stars Award not only recognises their achievements, but also helps to develop a pipeline of talent that will become the highly skilled technicians and business owners of tomorrow,” Brad Gannon said.
Capricorn thanks their Members across Australia and New Zealand who nominated their exceptional apprentices for this prestigious and highly sought after annual accolade.
Find out more about the Capricorn Rising Stars Award at cap.coop/stars
Image: 2024 Capricorn Rising Stars Top 5 Finalists
For further information contact media@capricorn.coop
About Capricorn
Capricorn Society was established in 1974 to support small business owners in the automotive aftermarket. Now 50 years later, Capricorn has over 28,000 Members across Australia and New Zealand including mechanical workshops, collision repairers and auto electricians.
Capricorn offers a range of competitive financial services products, including its flagship Trade Account that connects Members with over 2,000 Preferred Suppliers.
Proudly operating by cooperative principles, Capricorn Members also have access to risk protection, exclusive industry events and a generous Capricorn Rewards Program. For more information, visit capricorn.coop.