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CTF Scholarship Student Takes National Stage

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After dominating regionals, Christian Malinovic is on his way to the 2023 WorldSkills Australia National Championships! He’ll be one of seventeen Western Australian entrants showcasing their amazing trade skills and competing for a chance to join the Skills Squad and compete on an international stage. 

Christian discovered tiling at a skills expo, and it definitely made an impression. When his school presented the opportunity to participate in CTF’s Scholarship Program, he grabbed it with both hands. His admirable work ethic and creative flair were a recipe for success, and he soon found himself competing in the regional WorldSkills showcase.

Acknowledging this impressive feat, David Cunningham, the driving force behind the Construction Careers Scholarship Program at CTF, extends his congratulations not only to Christian but also to the dedicated lecturers who have played an instrumental role in nurturing these future tradies.

Cunningham emphasises, "Recognising the unwavering commitment of the lecturers involved in the Construction Careers Scholarship Program is of paramount importance. Their dedication to honing and refining the skills of these gifted students is truly commendable. Witnessing their perseverance and devotion culminate in national and international competition is nothing short of inspiring."

The Construction Careers Scholarship Program supports students who are passionate about construction. Each year, CTF awards scholarships to Western Australian students to give them a head start in working toward a building and construction apprenticeship. 

tiles of Australia

Through the scholarship program, Year 11 and 12 students complete a fully-funded pre-apprenticeship course. Students in the program gain hands-on trade skills and valuable industry experience. It’s a great opportunity to learn from industry experts and give yourself the best possible foundation for an exciting and diverse construction career.

WorldSkills Australia is an enterprise that believes in the power of skilled young people. They’ve been providing a platform for young people to display their trades and skills since 1981. 

Their national competition is the biggest vocational education competition in Australia! They know that building a skilled workforce is the secret to a successful future. That’s why WorldSkills is dedicated to supporting skill development, fostering enthusiasm, and building strong community connections with the next generation of the workforce.

Does Christian’s story sound familiar?

Female painter

Sharlene Kidd is another bright mind who took WorldSkills by storm. She started out as a painting and decorating apprentice, and soon found herself blasting through regionals and nationals, before arriving in Brazil in 2015 to win bronze. She now works for CTF as an Industry Training Advisor, inspiring young people to start a career in construction. 

Sharlene ranked 10th in the world for painting and decorating, and enjoyed every step of her WorldSkills journey. She’s even made a comeback as a judge for national competitions. Sharlene is especially passionate about inspiring young women to pursue construction apprenticeships and make the most of the fantastic benefits they offer. 

Young people are the future of construction in Australia. Providing opportunities for young people to aim high and achieve their dreams has never been more important. Through initiatives like CTF’s Scholarship Program, we strive to make construction careers desirable and accessible for students. 

Christian’s story proves that anything’s possible with a little bit of help. Funding and support from organisations like CTF can make a huge difference in the lives of young Australians. 

If you’re curious about your construction future, chat with the friendly CTF team today and learn more about our scholarships and programs. 

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Acknowledgement of Country

The Construction Training Fund acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land throughout Western Australia and pay our respect to the Elders both past and present. We thank them for their ongoing custodianship of the lands and waters, and celebrate their rich culture of art, song, dance, language, and stories.