Work & Training and Learning Partners’ 2025 Apprentice of the Year, Luke Sherrin, didn’t begin his journey expecting to become an electrotechnician, despite already being a standout apprentice with three consecutive award wins behind him.
As a teenager, Luke was the kid who built his first computer at twelve and spent high school immersed in circuitry and coding. By the time he reached university, he was on track for a Bachelor of IT until he realised he needed something more hands‑on. Something where every day presented a new puzzle.
That realisation led him to TasPorts in Burnie and into a Certificate III in Electrotechnology through Work & Training (part of the IntoWork Group). Luke jokes that the simplest explanation of his work is “the lights above your head and the PowerPoints to your side,” but what he does reaches far beyond that.
His role spans automation systems, commercial installations, complex fault finding, marine navigation equipment and the evolving technologies that keep Tasmania’s ports safe and operational.
And no two weeks ever look the same.
One week he’s in Strahan, clipped into a specialised safety platform, servicing navigation aids drilled into the seabed of the notoriously dangerous Macquarie Harbour. The next week, he might be back in Burnie diagnosing faults in a massive ship loader preparing woodchips for international export.
“That’s why I love what I do,” he said.
But it isn’t only technical talent that sets Luke apart. It’s his mindset. When asked what makes him stand out, he talks about showing up, “I think I’ve had six sick days since I started,” he said. “My supervisors know they can rely on me. They keep giving me bigger responsibilities, and I’ll fulfil their needs. My work ethic is definitely up there.”
He believes this kind of consistency is becoming rarer among new apprentices, not as criticism, but as a genuine challenge facing the industry. His own commitment, he says, comes from his upbringing, “Everything I know as a person, my parents taught me. Be kind. Put in 110%. Continue to be better every day.”
His dedication has been recognised repeatedly. Before earning the 2025 Apprentice of the Year title, Luke won Work & Training’s 2023 Second Year Apprentice of the Year and 2024 Third Year Apprentice of the Year.
Even now, while celebrating this achievement, Luke is already preparing for what comes next. He plans to upskill further, starting with a Certificate IV in Leadership through TasPorts. Long‑term, he hopes to move into project management, drawing together his IT background and hands‑on trade experience.
Even now, while celebrating this achievement, Luke is already preparing for what comes next. He plans to upskill further, starting with a Certificate IV in Leadership through TasPorts. Long‑term, he hopes to move into project management, drawing together his IT background and hands‑on trade experience.
Work & Training CEO Rodney Hayden said Luke’s progress has been inspiring to watch, “Luke’s journey through his electrical apprenticeship has been incredibly rewarding to witness. His curiosity, discipline and determination have truly ignited his passion for the trade, and it’s no surprise to see him recognised at this level.”
Luke has now been offered a full‑time position at the Burnie Port as a qualified electrician. He is eager to keep contributing to TasPorts, continue building his skills and step confidently into the next chapter of his career.