WesTrac NSW / ACT apprentice Braden Storey has taken out the 44th Annual Caterpillar Dealer Top Apprentice Program 2023.

Braden represented WesTrac NSW / ACT as he competed against 11 apprentices from other Cat® dealerships across the globe, proving he is one of the best in the world when it comes to his knowledge and expertise of Cat® products.

With a history spanning more than 40 years, the Caterpillar Dealer Top Apprentice Program aims to recognise the best and most promising apprentices in the heavy equipment industry. Braden’s victory is a testament to his exceptional technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities.

With a childhood spent around Cat® machines on his grandfather’s farm, Braden recognised his calling to pursue an apprenticeship from as early as six years old. He said it was an honour to be named top apprentice in such a prestigious program.

“It was an incredible experience. Seeing all the workstations down there that I’d never seen before, it was a really good opportunity to learn and broaden my range of experience. I couldn’t have done it without the support of Josh Huber and all the trainers at The Institute,” Braden said.

Adrian Howard, WesTrac NSW/ACT Chief Executive also expressed his delight and pride for Braden’s achievement.

“We are incredibly proud to see Braden’s hard work, dedication, and talent recognised in this way. Braden is an excellent example of what dedication, commitment and hard work can achieve during an apprenticeship with WesTrac, and we look forward to seeing Braden continue to develop in the coming years.”

Over the course of Braden’s apprenticeship, WesTrac NSW has invested significantly into its training program through the acquisition of new machines and technology to help apprentices be “Made for More”.

Pre-Trade Training Manager Josh Huber explained the ability to offer continued in-depth training with dedicated facilitators in upgraded state-of-the-art workshops allows apprentices to receive an unparalleled educational experience.

“The acquisition of new assets including a 730 C2 Articulator Dump Truck, 320 3D Next Gen Excavator, and a 972M Front End Loader to join the assets we already have has helped apprentices like Braden get hands on experience with the machines,” Josh Huber said.

“Our ongoing upgrades of the Tomago Institute are part of WesTrac’s longer term plan to ensure that WesTrac employees have the skills required to support the new technology of the future, including electrification. This is a part of our “Made for More” commitment in assisting team members in the development of their career.”

As the 2023 DTAP Winner, Braden has the chance to undertake a once in a lifetime experience jetting to America for two weeks of training and tour Caterpillar’s facilities.