Middy’s Apprentice Awards Return Bigger and Better
ShareMiddy’s Apprentice of the Year Awards, a national recognition program continues to grow in profile and participation each year.
Middy's Apprentice of the Year Awards, a national recognition program continues to grow in profile and participation each year. 2026 marks the introduction of the TAFE Awards, a new initiative designed to celebrate the training providers helping apprentices build the skills, confidence and industry excellence needed to succeed. Now firmly established as a meaningful platform for celebrating emerging electrical talent, the awards recognise apprentices who demonstrate excellence in their training, workplace performance, attitude and commitment to their trade.
As one of Australia's leading electrical wholesalers, Middy's is proud to champion apprentices in a way that is unique within the wholesale channel. Middy's is the only Australian electrical wholesaler offering a dedicated national Apprentice of the Year Awards program that recognises apprentices with industry acknowledgement, career development opportunities and valuable prizes.
"The award is great recognition for apprentices who are working hard to build their skills and create a future in the electrical industry."
Adam McCarney, 2025 Hugh Middendorp Apprentice of the Year Winner
Minerva Foods, Middy's Colac, VIC
Celebrating Excellence
The Apprentice of the Year Awards recognise apprentices who consistently demonstrate outstanding performance throughout their apprenticeship journey. Whether excelling in the classroom, on the job site, or showing leadership amongst their peers, the awards are designed to celebrate those individuals who are setting the standards for the next generation of electricians.
Applications will be independently judged by a panel of industry professionals, ensuring winners are selected based on their achievements, commitment and potential within the electrical industry.
The awards program includes a range of prizes and recognition opportunities:
Hugh Middendorp Apprentice of the Year Award
The national winner will receive:
- $5,000 cash to put towards tools and/or training
- National industry recognition
- Promotion through Middy's marketing and digital channels
Eleven Regional winners will each receive:
- $500 towards tools and/or training
- Industry recognition
- Exposure across Middy's promotional channels
The training provider of the national winning apprentice will receive:
- $5,000 worth of tools and equipment
- National recognition for supporting future industry talent
Supporting Apprentice Development
The Apprentice of the Year Awards form part of Middy's ongoing commitment to investing in the future of the electrical industry through the Middy's Apprentice Program.
Designed specifically for apprentices, the program provides access to:
- Exclusive apprentice benefits
- Special pricing on selected tools and equipment
- Training and development opportunities
- Career support and industry resources
Why Apply?
Applying is more than just an opportunity to win prizes.
The Apprentice of the Year Awards provide apprentices with the chance to:
- Gain recognition for their achievements
- Showcase their skills and career aspirations
- Build their professional profile within the industry
- Be recognised by employers, trainers and industry leaders
- Invest in tools and training that can help accelerate their careers
For many apprentices, the awards represent an opportunity to reflect on their journey, celebrate their progress and take the next step in their professional development.
Applications for the Apprentice of the Year Awards open Monday 3rd August 2026 and close on 13th September 2026. Eligible apprentices are encouraged to submit an application outlining their aspirations, achievements and experiences throughout their apprenticeship.
Ready to Apply?
If you're an electrical apprentice looking to make your mark on the industry, now is your chance. Join the Middy's Apprentice Program and apply for the 2026 Apprentice of the Year Awards to be recognised as one of Australia's brightest future electricians.
Click here to join the Middy's Apprentice Program
Click here to submit an application for the 2026 Apprentice of the Year Awards
