The spotlight was on vocational education and training (VET) at the 2025 Zeal Futures Excellence Awards held on Friday May 16 in Newcastle. The awards celebrated the achievements of the company’s best apprentices, trainees, students and businesses from across the state.

Among this year’s winners was Hunter-based Matthew Mullen who was named Apprentice of the Year.

Initially commencing mechanical engineering studies at university, Matthew decided to pursue a more hands-on pathway, leading him to complete an Engineering Mechanical apprenticeship.

Since completing his trade, Matt has also completed a Certificate IV in Fluid Power and continues to work at the Eraring Power Station as a mechanical fitter.

Matt was also selected to be a part of the coveted National, Today’s Skills: Tomorrow’s Leaders Program in Canberra last year among the top apprentices and trainees in the country.

“Winning Apprentice of the Year is a phenomenal feeling,” Matthew said.

“I never expected recognition, but it’s been really rewarding to have all the hard work and long hours acknowledged.

“I started my apprenticeship with a clear idea of where I wanted to go, and I’ve deliberately shaped my journey to become the tradesman I am today.

“The great thing about this apprenticeship is that you get out what you put in. If you’re willing to do the hard yards and really engage with the experience, the rewards go far beyond just skills – it shapes your character and can even lead to greater financial opportunities.

“I wouldn’t be who I am today without my apprenticeship and I definitely wouldn’t have made it this far without the support of people like Tiarne and Rob at Zeal Futures, my trainers, and all the supervisors and tradespeople at Origin.”

Zeal Futures CEO Sharon Smith congratulated Matthew and all winners and finalists from the Hunter.

“At Zeal Futures, we create success stories, and the calibre of this year’s winners is proof of that,” she said.

“Vocational education and training pathways like apprenticeships and traineeships give people access to hands-on learning for real jobs.

“As technology advances and markets continue to shift, different skills will be in demand. Apprenticeships and traineeships will ensure we have a skilled workforce that is ready for tomorrow. And with people like Matt coming through the ranks, the future is in good hands.”

Image caption: Matthew Mullen was named Apprentice of the Year at the 2025 Zeal Futures Excellence Awards.