Geelong carpenter Edan Dowling takes out top Master Builder apprentice award

A carpentry apprentice at The Gordon has had a boost of confidence after taking out a major award at the Master Builders Victorian Apprentice of the Year Awards.

Edan Dowling, third-year carpentry apprentice at The Gordon, won the Victorian Metropolitan Apprentice of the Year – Future Builder Award at the Master Builders Victorian Apprentice of the Year Awards. Picture: Supplied/The Gordon

A Geelong apprentice with a thirst for knowledge has been recognised at the Master Builders Victorian Apprentice of the Year Awards.

Certificate III in carpentry apprentice Edan Dowling claimed the Victorian Metropolitan Apprentice of the Year – Future Builder Award.

Nominated by The Gordon TAFE and employed by Geelong and Melbourne-based builder Proframe Victoria, Mr Dowling is regarded as a talented carpenter and leader with a bright future in the field.

Mr Dowling, who is currently studying to become a registered builder, said his passion for carpentry began in wood technology class in high school.

“Using hands-on skills to make something out of nothing made me realise that I would love to do this as a career,” Mr Dowling said.

He said he was shocked when he was announced as the winner of the prestigious award.

“Winning this award has given me a lot of confidence, showing me that I am heading in the right direction and am capable of being given more responsibilities,” Mr Dowling said.

“My goals are to be the best tradesperson I can be and have a crew of my own in the

future.”

Proframe Victoria owner Mick Martin-Alcaide said he was happy for Mr Dowling to have won the award.

“Edan’s work ethic and communication skills are as good as I’ve seen in an apprentice in 26 years on building sites,” he said.

“Edan has such a bright future ahead of him, we’re hoping he can go one step further at next year’s awards.”

Other Gordon apprentices who were recognised at the awards included Joel Muir (Certificate of Merit for Structural Trades Award), Jayden Bell (Certificate of Merit Developing Leader Award), Jaksyn Muna (Best First Year Certificate of Merit) and Darcy Ryan (Best First Year Certificate of Merit).

Originally published as Geelong carpenter Edan Dowling takes out top Master Builder apprentice award