A LOCAL apprentice has been named the Riverland’s only finalist in one of the most prestigious award programs that recognise excellence in vocational education and training (VET).
Currently completing a Certificate III in Carpentry, at Renmark business Clear Cut Carpentry, Saffron Rumbold was named a South Australian Training Awards finalist in the category of School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year earlier this month.
“I found out only a week or so ago, but I was pretty stoked about it — I ran straight over to (Clear Cut Carpentry owner) Jordan (Owen) and let him know,” Saffron told The Murray Pioneer.
“I was just very surprised and happy.”
Driven by a passion to enter a trade, and challenge conventional stereotypes, Saffron said the secret to her success was “working hard”.
“Girls in trades can be frowned upon, but if you put the effort in you can be just as capable,” she said.
Saffron began a work experience placement in Victoria with a local builder in 2023, before relocating to Renmark and commencing her four-year carpentry apprenticeship.
Since the shift, Saffron has worked on residential, commercial, private, and insurance projects, as well as gaining a finalist nomination for the Riverland and Mallee Vocational Awards.
“I chose to do an apprenticeship because I was always more interested in hands-on (learning),” Saffron said.
“I have always rather been outside doing stuff, and so far, I have really enjoyed (learning how to make) the framing of a house — everything you are doing, you are making from scratch.”
Recognised for her continued efforts, talent, and commitment in her training sector, Mr Owens said Clear Cut Carpentry were “very proud of Saffron and glad to see she was being acknowledged for all the effort she puts in.”
 “To be a carpenter, you need to have broad scope of the whole building industry, so I believe it can be one of the more challenging trades, with a lot to take in during the four years — but Saffron is great, puts in a lot of effort, and has a point to prove I think.,” he said.
“Though there can be a stigma (around women in trades), it just goes to show women are just as capable as men to do the work.
“I believe there are also not enough apprentices coming through (the education system) that are capable of doing the job properly themselves, so it feels good to have the effort we (as a business) place into our apprentices recognised.
“Apprenticeships are just a great pathway for young people to take up — you get paid to learn, and (it’s a vocation that) is really needed right now.”
Beginning third in November and already taking second charge roles in current projects, Saffron said she is already planning for major career goals.
“I would like to eventually go into a leading hand position,” she said.
“I also plan to stay local when I finish the apprenticeship.”