As the excitement of the 2025 WorldSkills competition settles, we're proud to highlight several Queensland Training Awards nominees who have stood out as competitors, mentors and champions of vocational excellence.
WorldSkills is more than just a competition – it's a celebration of practical skills, dedication and excellence across trades and training. Many of this year's Queensland Training Awards nominees have competed, mentored or volunteered at WorldSkills, showing how vocational education and training creates pathways to success for individuals and industries alike.
From apprentice to leader: Ali Maher
Ali Maher (Metropolitan) has carved out a successful career in painting and decorating, progressing from a pre-apprenticeship student to a national competitor. After excelling in regional WorldSkills competitions and representing Queensland at the national championships, Ali now leads teams as a supervisor with Ants Pants Painting Service.
Engineering excellence: Brodyn Casalegno
Brodyn Casalegno (North Queensland) completed a Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade through TAFE Queensland, bringing his passion for diagnostics and machining to Wilmar Sugar. Brodyn has excelled in WorldSkills competitions and now mentors others.
Breaking barriers in welding: Brylie Jones
Brylie Jones (Darling Downs South West) is the first female boilermaker apprentice at Stanwell Corporation — and she's making history. Recognised by Weld Australia as the Young Tradesperson of the Year, Brylie has earned top placements in WorldSkills competitions while promoting diversity and inclusion in trades. She's passionate about mentoring others and encouraging more women to consider engineering careers.
Training the future: Ruby Harrison
Ruby Harrison (Metropolitan) is shaping the next generation of trades professionals as a VET teacher with the National Institute for Construction Skills Queensland. Having supported more than 100 painting and decorating apprentices, Ruby has encouraged many to take part in WorldSkills. Her advocacy for women in trades and focus on hands-on learning is helping change perceptions and inspiring the next generation.
A legacy of mentorship: Paul Pardini
Paul Pardini (Tropical North Queensland) is a TAFE educator with over 30 years' experience in hairdressing and barbering. A long-time WorldSkills mentor and volunteer, Paul has guided countless students to success both in competition and beyond—and continues to make a lasting impact on vocational education in Queensland.
Celebrating a culture of excellence
Supported by opportunities like WorldSkills Australia, these QTA nominees represent what vocational education and training is all about — trade mastery, innovation and commitment to developing a skilled, confident workforce.
Find out more
Learn more about the Queensland Training Awards.
Last updated 20 June 2025
