South Regional TAFE is proud to announce that Lara Rognetta and Lewis Italiano have been named finalists in the Western Australian Apprentice of the Year 2025 category at the upcoming WA Training Awards.
This award is presented to an apprentice who has been outstanding an all aspects of their training.
The winners will be announced at the WA Training Awards ceremony on Friday, 5 September in Perth. The team at South Regional TAFE wish Lewis and Lara the very best and congratulate them on this outstanding achievement.
Lara Rognetta
Certificate III in Engineering Mechanical (Fitting)
Trained at: South Regional TAFE
Employed at: South 32 Worsley Alumina
Raised in Harvey on a small property, Lara was inspired by her father and grandfather to pursue a hands-on career. A high school visit to South32's Female Work Inspiration program solidified her decision to get a qualification in Mechanical Fitting. At South32 Worsley Alumina, Lara performed equipment maintenance, with a strong focus on safety and precision, but the high point during her training was being able to complete a shift rotation with her grandfather. As a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Lara doesn't want lower expectations placed upon her because she is female. She is committed to excelling in her trade, challenging gender expectations and inspiring future generations.
Lewis Italiano
Certificate III in Cabinetmaking and Timber Technology
Trained at: South Regional TAFE
Employed at: Milton Studios
Although Lewis has only recently completed his apprenticeship in cabinetmaking, his career pathway has already afforded him a huge and diverse range of experiences. Most notably, Lewis has succeeded at WorldSkills competitions, taking out the gold medal on the national stage, and representing Australia in his skill at international level where he was recognised with a Medallion for Excellence. His commitment to excellence has led him to complete countless hours of voluntary extra training pushing himself to be the best at his craft. Growing up in the small town of Wokalup, Lewis enjoyed woodwork at school and found his ambitions shifting from the family farm to a career working in timber. His passion has since taken him to France and Japan and he now plans to further extend his skills with a qualification in carpentry.