In Queensland’s heavy automotive industry, success is rarely accidental. It’s built through hard work, strong values and a commitment to developing great people, particularly apprentices.
For small businesses like Kel Stanton Mobile Diesel, investing in the next generation of tradespeople hasn’t just supported workforce growth; it’s helped build an award winning operation grounded in skill, trust and long term thinking.
Kel Stanton Mobile Diesel is the kind of business many apprentices aspire to work for. Known for high quality workmanship and dependable service across Queensland, the business has grown steadily by focusing on people as much as performance. Central to that approach is a belief that apprentices are not a short term solution to skills shortages, but a long term investment in the future of the industry.
“Apprentices are awesome for business,” Kel said. “When you bring someone in early, train them properly and support their development, you’re not just filling a role – you’re building capability.”
That philosophy has paid off. Through employing and mentoring apprentices trained with TAFE Queensland (RTO 0275), Kel Stanton Mobile Diesel has fostered a skilled, loyal workforce and earned industry recognition, including an Apprentice Network Small Employer of the Year Award at the 2025 TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech CSQ Apprentice Awards. The accolade reflects not only technical excellence, but a genuine commitment to developing talent the right way.
TAFE Queensland plays a vital role in that journey. By delivering industry relevant training that prepares apprentices for real world conditions, TAFE Queensland gives employers confidence that new starters arrive ready to learn, contribute and grow. Across South East Queensland, facilities including Acacia Ridge, Bracken Ridge and Caboolture provide access to contemporary equipment and knowledgeable, passionate educators who deliver training that reflects current trade practice.
For apprentices, this means stepping into the workforce with a strong foundation; from core diesel and heavy commercial vehicle knowledge through to problem solving, safety and professionalism. For businesses like Kel’s, it means apprentices who understand expectations from day one and can progress quickly under workplace supervision.
“What makes a difference is knowing apprentices have already been exposed to the realities of the job,” Kel said. “You’re not starting from scratch. TAFE Queensland gives them the fundamentals, and we build on that in the business.”
This seamless connection between training and employment is exactly what the heavy automotive industry needs as technology advances and demand for skilled workers continues to rise. Employers are under pressure to keep fleets moving while navigating new systems, compliance standards and customer expectations. Well trained apprentices help bridge that gap.
TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech General Manager Stephen Gates says partnerships with employers are essential to producing job ready graduates and supporting business sustainability.
“Industry collaboration ensures our training stays current and relevant,” Stephen said. “It also means employers can confidently take on apprentices, knowing they are supported by a high quality training system aligned with industry needs.”
For small businesses considering their first apprentice, or their next, stories like Kel Stanton Mobile Diesel demonstrate what’s possible. With the right training partner and a genuine commitment to mentoring, apprentices can become the backbone of a business’s success.
As training opportunities continue to expand at TAFE Queensland’s Bracken Ridge and Caboolture facilities, more employers now have access to local training pathways that support both apprentices and business growth. These facilities strengthen workforce pipelines while keeping skills development close to where people live and work.
For Kel, the formula remains simple: train well, support people and back the future of the trade.
“You get out what you put in,” Kel said. “When you invest in apprentices, they invest back into your business.”
It’s a message echoed across Queensland’s heavy automotive industry, and one that proves award winning businesses don’t just build machines – they build great people.
To learn more about TAFE Queensland’s free Find Your Apprentice service, please visit tafeqld.edu.au/find-your-apprentice-service.