Student Spotlight - Kyle Kraus
This GOTAFE student is in the running for an apprentice of the year award.
GOTAFE’s specialised training offerings have allowed Kyle Kraus to change careers – and scenery – with ease.
The former Melbourne-based landscaper is now into the second year of his Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR31120) apprenticeship with Fords Bus Service Shepparton.
He has enjoyed the self-paced and hands-on aspects of his course.
“I was a qualified landscaper and I was on the machines all the time and didn’t really know how to fix them, and they were always breaking down, so I thought why not get into the trade where I can fix them,” Kyle said.
“I love it (the change of career), it’s good fun pulling stuff apart and figuring out what to do (with it)."
Kyle’s work ethic and dedication encouraged his employers to nominate him for the Greater Shepparton Business Excellence Awards – and he has since been named as a finalist in the Apprentice/Trainee of the Year category.
Fords’ Warren Schramm described Kyle as “hard working”, highlighting that “his attitude towards work and other people is just brilliant.”
While GOTAFE Automotive Trainer and Assessor Mark Warren was also full of praise for his student.
“Kyle is making a great effort to enhance his knowledge and hands-on skills at GOTAFE with myself, and has had great support from Fords Buses,” Mark said.
“(He is) keen to learn and does it with a great rapport.”
This year’s Greater Shepparton Business Network gala dinner – where award winners will be announced – is set to be held on Friday, 24 October.
“I was a bit shocked, I definitely didn’t know anything about it (the nomination) but it’s exciting,” Kyle said.
“I’d just like to say thank you (to Fords) for nominating me, it was definitely a shock, I didn’t know it was even a thing to be honest, but thank you and I appreciate it.”
