YOUTH ENTERPRISE AWARD
Winner: Alex Woller
Sponsor: Chisholm Institute
ALEX Woller is a leader in the making.
Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce recognised the 20-year-old’s drive with the 2014 Youth Enterprise Award.
ACTCO-Pickering Metal Industries CEO Jill Walsh said Alex was in the third year of his apprenticeship with the company which supplies the rail, defence and aerospace industries.
“We need highly-skilled tradespeople,” she said.
Ms Walsh said Alex was extremely focused and passionate with a skill level far beyond his years, and that he had a natural ability to digest complicated information about fabrication.
“Let’s hope we’re looking at the next CEO of ATCO-Pickering,” she said.
“Alex’s problem solving skills are excellent.
“He will give it his best shot before he asks for help. This shows an advanced level of confidence and maturity.”
Alex is studying for a certificate three in engineering and fabrication at Chisholm Institute in Dandenong to become a qualified welder and boilermaker.
He also holds a certificate two in first aid and certificate two in engineering technology and completed working safely in the construction industry training.
Alex volunteered during high school, preparing food for the homeless and working in community op shops for Frankston City Life Centre and helping disability support service Scope.
“Alex’s strong sense of patience and understanding towards those with difficulties comes from his lifelong experience with a younger brother who has autism,” Ms Walsh said.
Alex is helping to restore a 1958 Volkswagen Beetle as a project at home with his father. He said he’d always been a hands-on person.
“It’s one of the things I love to do.
“I enjoy it every day and can see myself doing it for the rest of my life,” he said.
Alex said welding was popular work.
“The younger generation seems to be getting more into it,” he said.
“The possibilities are endless.
“It’s going to be an integral part of manufacturing in Australia.”
He wants to achieve as many qualifications as possible to help him achieve the highest work standards.
“I want to pursue a steady, secure life. I want to buy a house, a car and be secure and happy,” he said.
“Good friends, good family and a good job is all I need.”
