Outstanding apprentices reach finals

Five Ai Group Apprentice and Trainee Centre (Ai Group ATC) apprentices in South Australia have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to their trades.  

Izak Lorton, Josiah Lanthois and Robert Than have been named as 2025 finalists in Awards Australia’s 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards – SA. 

They are among a group of five vying for the South Australian Skills Commission Outstanding Apprentice Award. 

Fellow Ai Group ATC apprentices Megan McAloney, Ryder Fiegert and Tia Gutteridge were also nominated for the award, with Megan and Ryder making it through to the semi-finals. 

Ai Group ATC Head Kristian Stratton said he was beyond delighted so many Ai Group apprentices had been recognised. 

“It’s a real credit to these young people and their dedication and commitment to their budding careers,” Mr Stratton said. 

“This recognition shows they are thriving at their host companies and benefiting from the guidance and support of their Ai Group ATC Employment Training Consultants. 

“We wish Izak, Josiah and Robert the very best at the Awards night in Adelaide next month.” 

Izak, a mechanical engineering apprentice, is hosted to ANFF-SA (the South Australian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility). 

Electrical apprentice Josiah is hosted to Ai Group member Mayfield Industries and fellow electrical apprentice Robert is also hosted to an Ai Group member — Vector Technologies. 

Ai Group Head of South Australia Estha van der Linden, who will attend the gala dinner on June 14, paid tribute to industry partnering with Ai Group ATC to offer the apprentices such a valuable learning experience.  

“Without employers, there are no apprentices and no trainees,” she said. 

“It’s a vital collaboration that benefits everyone.” 

Have your say: Take part in the Australian Industry Group’s Apprenticeships and Traineeships Survey.