A diesel mechanic apprentice has proved his ability across a series of challenging tasks to claim a significant trade title.
Fourth-year apprentice Daniel James, of Daimler Trucks Sunshine Coast, recently won the WorldSkills Heavy Commercial Vehicle competition at TAFE Queensland’s Bracken Ridge campus.
The competition tested competitors’ ability to diagnose and repair six vehicles spanning FUSO, Cummins-engined, and Mack platforms, through to a tractor unit.
Mr James, 25, competed against apprentices from Western Truck Group, Brown and Hurley, and Followmont Transport.
TAFE Queensland leading vocational teacher automotive mechanical David Compton lauded the winner.
“Daniel represented Daimler with distinction, achieving first place and earning the highest score,” he said.
“His methodical approach to diagnostics, strong analytical skills and ability to adapt to a range of challenging tasks set him apart from the other competitors and impressed the judging panel throughout the competition.”
Mr James’ path into the trade wasn’t a conventional one.
He completed about 90 per cent of a university degree before choosing to pursue a hands-on career, enrolling in the four-year TAFE Queensland diesel mechanic course through the DTSC apprentice pathway.
Like stories about Sunshine Coast people doing great things? Help us deliver more by registering for our FREE daily news feed. All it requires is your email at the bottom of this article.
“His development into a highly capable tradesperson is a testament to both his dedication and the support provided by Daimler,” Mr Compton said.
“I have no doubt that Daniel will be a valuable asset to your organisation and a positive role model for future apprentices.”
Daimler Trucks Sunshine Coast, which is located at Forest Glen, extended its congratulations to Mr James on his “outstanding achievement” and thanked TAFE Queensland and the WorldSkills program for “their continued support in developing the next generation of skilled tradespeople”.
