Student Testimonial – Greg Hutchings

Greg Hutchings looks back at the decision to start a plumbing apprenticeship with no regrets.

The Certificate III in Plumbing and Gasfitting student was recently named as a finalist in the 2005 Outstanding Student of the Year Awards – Apprentice category.

"Looking back now, it’s easy to see it was the right thing to do," he said.

Greg admitted he had reservations when he enrolled in the course.

"I began my apprenticeship at 22, so it did feel like I was starting all over again," he said.

"After the end of the first week I was actually regretting I had not done TAFE instead of university to begin with as I would be finishing not beginning my apprenticeship."

Greg said for the first time he had been taught practical skills he could take with him to the workplace.

"This was something neither high school or university could do for me. I’m very grateful to Box Hill Institute," he said.

"The commitment and staff from Box Hill Institute was outstanding."

Greg initially studied at university for two years. Despite receiving good results he became frustrated and needed stronger career direction.

"I could see that to become a plumber there was a very clearly structured path and I could envision myself eventually owning a plumbing business and employing people," he said.

"This was very appealing to me and I realised that direct benefits would flow if I was prepared to apply effort."

16 June 2005