Since joining the defence force as a heavy vehicle apprentice in the Australian Army, Camron Dixon, 21, has been awarded the 2014 Snap-on Tools Australia Apprentice of the Year Defence Forces Award, taking home over $2,500 worth of prizes and the accolade of industry leaders.
Dixon took out the prize this year after he provided a comprehensive submission that outlined his unwavering commitment to his trade as well as to his career within the army.
Based at the Enoggera barracks, Dixon demonstrated skills and abilities well above his level of experience, with his superiors making the rare decision to permit him to handle armoured vehicles and allow him to become a cavalry driver’s point of call on a recent military exercise.
While away on exercise Dixon also excelled in identifying brake concerns with necessary vehicles, and dedicating himself to overnight repair under tactical ‘red light’ so that they were performance-ready for the next day.
Dixon always believed that a heavy vehicle apprenticeship would suit him. “I’ve always wanted to join the Army, but I also wanted the safety of a solid trade under my belt. I’ve always loved working on my own cars. Now I’m doing on-the-job training, I'm able to put all of my knowledge into action and surprise myself with everything I've learnt to date,” he said.
“Since starting I've enjoyed my time as an On-Job Trainee, experiencing different military units and military vehicles as well as experiencing civilian vehicles and newer technology.”
Camron’s submission impressed the judges for his dedication to understanding the workings of heavy vehicles, but also his investment of time and energy back into issues that concern him.
Now in its sixth year, Snap-on Tools’ prestigious annual awards program received 100 entries from apprentices across the country – from small petrol stations to underground mining operations.
Camron’s award comes after intense analysis of all applicants, including an unprecedented number of young women vying for the top position.
A shortlist of 23 finalists was scrutinised by a panel of judges including:
- V8 Supercar driver, James Moffatt;
- Motor Traders’ Association of NSW, senior manager, Matthew Frame;
- Defence Force – Army, HQ Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, National Technical Training manager, Wayne Allan;
- Auto Skills Australia, training package specialist Stuart Behrend;
- Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association, executive director, Stuart Charity;
- Snap-on Tools business manager and auto engineer Alan Moon.
The Snap-on Tools Apprentice of the Year Award for overall excellence was presented to light automotive apprentice Mitchell Blizard, Porsche Service South Sydney, NSW.
The Snap-on Tools Apprentice of the Year Rising Star Award for exhibiting great potential was presented to light automotive apprentice Martin van de Walt from Kerry’s Automotive Group, NT.