At Stratco, we believe the future of the building industry lies in the skill, dedication and ambition of the next generation of tradespeople. That’s why we are proud to continue our partnership with the Housing Industry Association (HIA) in supporting and celebrating Western Australia’s apprentices.
On Friday 31 July, the 2026 HIA Apprentice of the Year Awards brought together apprentices, trainers, employers and industry leaders at Aloft Perth to recognise the outstanding achievements of WA’s emerging tradespeople.
Hosted by media personality Ross Wallman, the evening celebrated apprentices at every stage of their journey, recognising their technical skills, commitment to their trade, workplace safety and the determination required to build a successful career in the construction industry.
Celebrating WA’s Apprentice of the Year
The highest honour of the evening went to Sam Hegney of Woodleigh Home Improvements, who was named the 2026 HIA Apprentice of the Year.
Sam was also recognised as the Third Year Apprentice of the Year, making his achievement particularly impressive. His dedication, skill and commitment throughout his apprenticeship have seen him stand out among an exceptional group of apprentices from across Western Australia.
HIA Executive Director Michael McGowan praised Sam’s achievements, highlighting the qualities that make him an outstanding example of the opportunities available through an apprenticeship.
“Sam represents everything our industry values in future leaders - skilled, committed, safety-conscious and eager to grow. He is an outstanding example of where an apprenticeship can take you.”
Sam’s success demonstrates that an apprenticeship can provide far more than trade skills. With the opportunity to earn while learning, gain nationally recognised qualifications and develop valuable on-the-job experience, apprenticeships can provide a strong foundation for a rewarding and long-term career in the building industry.
Recognising Talent Across Every Year
The HIA Apprentice of the Year Awards recognise apprentices at different stages of their training, celebrating the progress, dedication and skills they develop throughout their apprenticeships.
This year’s winners represented a diverse range of emerging talent across Western Australia.
First Year Apprentice of the Year - Sabir Maper
ABN Training - Gary Wortley (Host)
Beginning an apprenticeship is the first step towards a rewarding career in the building industry, and Sabir Maper was recognised as the 2026 First Year Apprentice of the Year.
Hosted by Gary Wortley through ABN Training, Sabir’s recognition highlights the enthusiasm and commitment required to make a strong start in the industry.
Second Year Apprentice of the Year - Chloe Robertson
ABN Training - MNC Bricklaying (Host)
Chloe Robertson, hosted by MNC Bricklaying through ABN Training, was named the 2026 Second Year Apprentice of the Year.
As apprentices progress through their training, they continue to develop their technical knowledge, confidence and ability on the job. Chloe’s recognition reflects her commitment to building those skills and continuing to grow within her trade.
Third Year Apprentice of the Year - Sam Hegney
Woodleigh Home Improvements
Sam Hegney was recognised as the 2026 Third Year Apprentice of the Year, before taking out the evening’s highest honour as HIA Apprentice of the Year.
His achievement demonstrates the consistency, dedication and skill required to excel throughout an apprenticeship and highlights the potential of the next generation of industry professionals.
Fourth Year Apprentice of the Year - Rocco Groves
HIA - APEX WA Carpentry Solutions (Host)
As apprentices approach the completion of their training, their knowledge, independence and responsibility continue to grow.
Rocco Groves, hosted by APEX WA Carpentry Solutions through HIA, was recognised as the 2026 Fourth Year Apprentice of the Year for his achievements throughout his apprenticeship.
His award is a testament to the hard work and commitment required to reach the final stages of an apprenticeship.
Recognising Endeavour and Achievement
The awards also recognised apprentices who demonstrated exceptional qualities throughout their training.
The Judges’ Excellence in Endeavour Award was presented to Sabit Maper of ABN Training, hosted by Gary Wortley, recognising his dedication and commitment to his apprenticeship.
The Judges’ High Commendation Award went to Aref Babaie of ABN Training, hosted by AM & FM Bricklaying.
These awards highlight that success in an apprenticeship is about more than technical ability. Attitude, perseverance, willingness to learn and a commitment to personal development all play an important role in building a successful career in the trades.
Recognising the Trainers Behind the Apprentices
Behind every successful apprentice is a network of employers, trainers and mentors who provide guidance, support and valuable hands-on experience.
The 2026 HIA Apprentice Host Trainer Award was presented to Jethro Urwin of APEX WA Carpentry Solutions, recognising his contribution to the development and support of apprentices within the industry.
Host trainers play an important role in helping apprentices turn their training into practical skills, providing the knowledge and mentorship that can shape their careers long after their apprenticeship is complete.
Why Apprenticeships Matter
The HIA Apprentice of the Year Awards are about more than recognising individual achievements. They highlight the important role apprenticeships play in creating skilled workers and building the future of Australia’s construction industry.
As Michael McGowan explains, an apprenticeship provides an opportunity to earn while you learn, gain nationally recognised qualifications without accumulating university debt and develop a rewarding career with genuine opportunities for advancement.
For an industry that continues to evolve, attracting and developing skilled tradespeople is essential. Apprentices bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, while building the practical skills that will help shape the industry for years to come.
Stratco’s Commitment to the Future of the Industry
As a proud HIA partner, Stratco is committed to supporting apprentices and recognising the people who are helping to shape the future of the building industry.
The HIA Apprentice of the Year Awards provide an important opportunity to celebrate the hard work of apprentices, while also recognising the employers and trainers who support them throughout their journey.
Stratco congratulates Sam Hegney, Sabir Maper, Chloe Robertson, Rocco Groves, Jethro Urwin, Aref Babaie and all of this year’s award recipients and finalists on their achievements.
Their dedication, skill and ambition are helping to build a stronger future for Western Australia’s construction industry, and we are proud to celebrate their success.
Congratulations to all the 2026 HIA Apprentice of the Year Award winners!