Four trucking apprentices will be given an opportunity to further their careers, after being named the 2024 Cummins Scholarship winners by the Australian Trucking Association (ATA).
These scholarships are aimed at promising apprentice mechanics and service technicians, aiming to help them increase their levels of expertise.
As ATA chair Mark Parry explained, “Thanks to Cummins South Pacific, these four apprentices (see below) will be recognised on the main stage of ATA’s 2024 Technology and Maintenance Conference as part of the conference opening on 22 October and will be paired with an experienced industry mentor to help make the most of their conference experience.”
In addition to full registration at TMC 24, the winners will experience a pre-conference tour of the Cummins plant in Victoria.
Cummins South Pacific Manager, on-highway sales and customer support, Scott Alexander said, “Cummins is proud to continue our partnership with the ATA.
“Today’s apprentices are the future of our industry, and this program is crucial in supporting the professional growth of people entering the industry’s workshops.
“Cummins regularly presents at TMC, and this year our technical experts will run a session covering Euro VI after treatment and maintenance, with a live demonstration and components on display. The session will also cover inter-axle differential operations,” he said.
The 2024 Cummins Scholarship recipients are:
Joshua Troeth – Tatiara Truck & Trailers, Bordertown, SA
Joshua is a third-year apprentice with Tatiara Truck & Trailers. Through his eagerness to learn and apply new skills, Joshua has been able to move quickly onto more complex jobs in the workshop such as valve adjustments, assisting engine rebuilds as well as joining the callout team.
Joshua has demonstrated strong leadership qualities throughout his apprenticeship and has been nominated for several awards.
Lachlan Evans – Divall’s Earthmoving and Bulk Haulage, Goulburn, NSW
Lachlan is a third-year apprentice with Divall’s Earthmoving and Bulk Haulage. He is known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail. Always eager to learn, he takes pride in obtaining the right information to ensure every job is completed accurately and safely.
Outside of work, Lachlan is a passionate hockey player who values the team spirit and enjoys maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Samuel Della – Frasers Livestock Transport, Warwick, Qld
Samuel is a third-year apprentice at Frasers Livestock Transport. He is a dedicated learner, always eager to go the extra mile. He has worked on a variety of heavy vehicles, with his most recent and in-depth focus being the Cummins X15.
As a valued team member, Sam is well-respected by his peers and takes a proactive role in mentoring and supporting school-based and junior apprentices.
Zethaniah Copland – McColls Transport, South Geelong, Vic
Zethaniah is a fourth-year apprentice with McColls Transport. He brings a positive and inquisitive attitude to his work in the workshop, fuelled by a strong passion for learning. Naturally drawn to American vehicles, he has quickly mastered the ins and outs of Kenworths.
The 2024 Technology and Maintenance Conference will take place from October 21-23, at the Melbourne Docklands. The conference will also feature: the PACCAR Parts Fun Night at the Fox Car Museum and the Castrol Awards Dinner, to be held at Melbourne’s Crown Aviary rooftop venue.