Cole Cleaves, a standout automotive apprentice from Tasmania’s North-West, has been named the Victorian/Tasmanian Region Winner.
Described by his mentor as a “once-in-a-lifetime apprentice,” Cole’s passion for diagnostics, commitment to quality, and a customer focused mindset have positioned him as an emerging leader in the trade.
Completing his apprenticeship at WD Auto Electrical & Air Conditioning, Cole exemplifies the importance of investing in the next generation of tradespeople, and his achievements highlight the critical role apprentices play in shaping Australia’s automotive future.
Capricorn Rising Stars Award program commenced in 2018, supported by longstanding industry partners Castrol, Repco and The Workshop Whisperer. The awards recognise mechanical apprentices who go above and beyond – apprentices like Coles Cleaves, whose employer WD Auto Electrical & Air Conditioning is helping set a benchmark for training excellence.
2025 marks the first year Capricorn will be awarding Region Winners as well as an Overall Winner for the Rising Stars Award, rewarding more apprentices than ever before. Now in its eighth year, the program plays a vital role in developing the next generation of automotive talent, helping Capricorn Members attract and retain skilled workers, and supporting the industry as it navigates skills shortages, the transition to EVs and an increasingly competitive landscape.
“It’s clear from his nomination that Cole brings a level of professionalism, initiative and care that sets a benchmark for how apprentices can contribute,” said Capricorn Chief Executive Officer Brad Gannon.
“Apprentices like Cole are the future of our industry, and we must continue to invest in and celebrate the vital role they play — especially in regional areas like Tasmania, where skilled professionals are essential to local economies.”
"It’s incredibly encouraging to see young professionals like Cole striving to become experts in our field. As the automotive industry continues to change, having talent and a drive like Cole’s is vital to meet the evolving skillsets our industry needs,” Mr Gannon says.
In 2025, Cole also received the TasTAFE Trade Excellence Award for Automotive Final Year Apprentice of the Year.
His instructor praised his performance and dedication, noting that he “never expected anything less than 100% of himself”.
Cole’s vision for the future is to become a leading diagnostic expert on Tasmania’s North-West coast by advancing his knowledge in electronic circuit repair and diagnostics.
“I look forward to increasing my knowledge base to be able to repair all faults associated with electrical components and keep all repairs in house,” said Cole.
Winning the Capricorn Rising Stars Award can be a career defining moment for both finalists and winners, while also boosting the reputation of the workshop that has supported, trained and recognised their talent.
Cole now joins five other Region Winners in the running for the prestigious Overall Winner title, to be announced later this year. The Rising Stars Award recognise the talent and commitment that will shape the industry’s future.
Find out more at capricorn.coop/rising-stars (for print cap.coop/stars).
For further information contact media@capricorn.coop or +61 455 731 955.
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About Capricorn Society
Capricorn is one of Australia and New Zealand’s largest and most dynamic Member-owned organisations. Since 1974, we’ve provided our Members with financial and business solutions to make running a business easier. Our flagship Trade Account offers instant credit with over 2,000 Preferred Suppliers, simplified monthly expenses, and a generous rewards program.
We have a strong foundation in the automotive and machinery aftermarkets. Our vibrant community includes over 30,000 Members across Australia and New Zealand, from national franchises to your local family workshop. Last year, Capricorn facilitated over $3.7bn in sales with our Preferred Suppliers.
At Capricorn, we're about more than just products and services. We work hard to ensure that our Members, Preferred Suppliers and People feel like they're part of something bigger — a Community which is connected and supported to make a difference, while having some fun along the way!