Boilermaker Apprentice Named 2025 MIGAS Apprentice of the Year
MIGAS Boilermaker Apprentice, Craig Townsend, receiving his award during National Apprenticeship Week.
National Apprenticeship Week Australia celebrates the role of apprenticeships and traineeships in building the skills and confidence of individuals and strengthening the industries and economy of our nation.
As part of the celebrations, MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees present their highest individual honour – the MIGAS Apprentice of the Year – to recognise not only trade excellence, but the character, leadership and commitment that define a truly well-rounded apprentice.
During National Apprenticeship Week, Craig Townsend was named the 2025 MIGAS Apprentice of the Year. The award was presented by MIGAS CEO David Hoey at the Australian Apprenticeships Stakeholder Luncheon – a flagship event of National Apprenticeship Week held in Brisbane on 10 February 2026, delivered in partnership with the Queensland Government.
A third-year Boilermaker Apprentice hosted with Wood Australia at the Ampol Refinery, Craig was selected from a standout field of category winners across the MiScholarship Program.
Setting the Standard
Craig's selection reflects a year of exceptional performance across every dimension of his apprenticeship – technical skill, safety leadership and professionalism.
"Craig represents the very best of the apprenticeship pathway. His technical achievements are impressive, but what truly distinguishes him is his professionalism, his commitment to safety and the way he supports those around him," said David Hoey, Chief Executive Officer of MIGAS.
"He is already demonstrating the qualities of a future industry leader."
Technical Excellence Under Pressure
Craig's achievements over the past year speak for themselves. He attained his 6G positional weld certification and Welder ID qualification – significant milestones in the boilermaking trade – and completed his first process plant weld with 100 per cent radiographic testing passed on the first attempt.
That result reflects the kind of precision and confidence that can only come from genuine preparation and skill. When critical breakdowns occur on site, Craig steps up – working demanding shifts under pressure while maintaining the highest safety and quality standards throughout.
A Leader Beyond the Workbench
Craig's impact reaches well beyond his own work. He received Wood's "Make it Home" Safety Award after identifying and mitigating a significant workplace hazard, reflecting a proactive approach to safety that makes the people around him safer, too.
He mentors junior apprentices, contributes to process improvements in the workshop, and consistently leads by example.
Outside the immediate demands of his role, Craig has also shown strong community commitment – serving as the face of Ampol's Movember campaign and championing the Containers for Change sustainability initiative.
It's In the Making
Craig Townsend's recognition as 2025 Apprentice of the Year is a testament to what becomes possible when structured training, strong host employer partnerships and individual dedication come together. The theme of National Apprenticeship Week 2026 – It's in the Making – could not be a more apt description of Craig's journey: a skilled tradesperson, a safety leader and a future industry professional, forged through hard work and commitment to his craft.
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Originally published by MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees. Republished with permission for National Apprenticeship Week.
