Gemma applauded for scholarship win at apprentice training awards gala dinner

Gemma McCormick, our recently graduated electrical apprentice hosted to Aggreko, was applauded at the 2025 Apprentice Training Awards, hosted by Apprenticeship Employment Network (AEN) and Global Apprenticeship Network (GAN) Australia at Melbourne Town Hall last night. 

Gemma was recognised for winning this year’s $12,000 GAN Australia International Study Tour Scholarship, which will enable her to travel to Glasgow — the home of Aggreko’s global headquarters — in May next year. 

GAN Global Executive Director Kathryn Rowan, in Australia from Geneva, Switzerland, congratulated Melbourne-based Gemma and acknowledged the unique opportunity the scholarship provides. 

The prize gives Australian apprentices the chance to broaden their skills and knowledge by gaining valuable work experience overseas.   

Gemma plans to use the study tour to focus on:   

• power generation and renewable energy – learning how large-scale energy systems are transitioning to greener, more resilient models; 
• battery storage and hybrid energy solutions – understanding how cutting-edge technology is being used to balance energy demands, increase reliability and reduce environmental impact and  
• smart grid and energy efficiency – seeing how data-driven systems help optimise energy use and improve sustainability outcomes. 

Ms Rowan, pictured with Gemma and Australian Industry Group Apprentice and Trainee Centre‘s (ATC) Craig Hilton, told guests Australia is a global leader in apprenticeships, particularly through the strength of the group training sector, which sets a benchmark internationally. 

She commended our ATC and Aggreko for their support in making Gemma’s journey possible — a partnership that reinforces the importance of collaboration between training organisations and host employers. 

Ms Rowan also shared insights into GAN’s mission to promote work-based learning worldwide. 

It was a triple treat for the ATC team last night, with Max Neagle named as Apprentice of the Year and Sarah Hun-Mozes scooping the Female Apprentice of the Year award.

Congratulations to Gemma, Max and Sarah and all the nominees, finalists and winners at AEN’s 2025 Apprentice Training Awards.