In celebration of NAIDOC week in July 2023, we recognise the achievements of 21-year-old Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentice, Daniel Hancock.
The theme For Our Elders is particularly relevant for Daniel, “for me, it means to celebrate and acknowledge the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Our elders have paved the way for individuals like me to have endless opportunities to be able to achieve future career goals.”
Daniel Hancock is a proud Kamilaroi man, living in Gundungurra country. He is a Master Builders third-year Carpentry Apprentice, achieving his career goals with Kela Building Group. He is currently working on a large residential property in Sutton Forest.
“My role throughout my apprenticeship is to carry out tasks such as analysing plans, formwork, framing, installing skirting and architraves, and installing windows and doors. While being able to independently apply what I have learned from other jobs to the current job”.
“With Kela Building Group, I have been able to build a range of interesting projects such as a rock-climbing wall and an outdoor BBQ area. Before this, I was with a commercial construction company building infrastructure for schools. Now I’m on this beautiful property in Sutton Forrest building this amazing house. These projects are all creative and different. There is a big sense of accomplishment in seeing the results of the effort I put in.”
For Daniel, doing a Carpentry apprenticeship is a rewarding experience. He hopes that his story encourages young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to consider a career in the industry. “This is a career path that offers endless opportunities for personal and professional growth. Not only do you get to take part in projects but also you gain valuable lessons that can be applied to your everyday life.”
The future looks bright for Daniel, as he works towards a long-term career in the industry, as a qualified Carpenter or managing his own Carpentry business. He would love to be in the position one day to employ young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and pass on his invaluable skills to others.
Construction Project Manager and Training Supervisor Haidar Toufaili, from Kela Building Group appreciates Daniel’s great work ethic and willingness to learn, “Daniel is a good kid. He turns up, ready to learn and ready to have a laugh. The guys on the building site enjoy having him around and he helps us build these kinds of projects for our clients. Like Daniel, you must prove you want to learn the skills, and that’s what makes a successful apprenticeship.”
His advice for young people that want to start a career in building and construction is, “It’s simple. Be punctual and be reliable. If you can turn up on time every day, we’ll teach you the rest!” says Haidar.