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CVGT Employment Trainee celebrates two major wins at the 2025 Apprentice Training Awards
The winners of the 2025 Apprentice Training Awards were announced last night at a spectacular ceremony at Melbourne Town Hall, celebrating the achievements of Victoria’s apprentices, trainees, and Group Training Organisations (GTOs).
Hosted by the Apprenticeship Employment Network (AEN) and Global Apprenticeship Network (GAN) Australia, these awards recognise excellence in the group training sector and honour the contributions of apprentices, trainees, GTO members, staff, and industry partners across the state.
CVGT Employment is proud to announce that Caitlin Van Dolderen has achieved an extraordinary double win:
- 2025 Trainee of the Year
- 2025 People’s Choice Trainee of the Year
This recognition reflects Caitlin’s resilience, professionalism, and commitment to lifelong learning. Starting her traineeship with the City of Greater Bendigo in February 2024, Caitlin embraced every challenge as an opportunity to grow. As a young single mother, she balanced full-time work and study while supporting a team dedicated to empowering young people.
I chose this traineeship to kickstart my career and gain real-world experience while studying – a perfect fit for me as a young single mother determined to reach my goals.
Balancing full time work and study seemed daunting but the YO Bendigo traineeship offered the ideal opportunity to grow professionally while supporting a team dedicated to empowering young people.
One of my proudest achievements has been completing my Certificate III in Business and progressing to Certificate IV In Business.
Being named Student of the Month by Integrity Business College was a huge confidence boost and having the chance to backfill the Senior Administration role in my unit, my dream job has been incredibly rewarding.
These experiences have helped me build not only my skills but also my self belief.
Caitlin Van Dolderen
Business Administration Trainee, City of Greater Bendigo
The Trainee of the Year Award honours outstanding trainees within Victoria’s Group Training Organisations. This award celebrates exceptional performance, commitment, and achievements in vocational training, recognising the best and brightest trainees across the state.
The People’s Choice Award is a unique category that puts the power in the hands of the public. Votes from across the community help spotlight rising talent and celebrate their achievements. This award is all about engagement and recognition, giving everyone the chance to be part of the excitement and make their voice count.
Caitlin’s employer praised her initiative and leadership:
Caitlin is a reliable, versatile and diligent member of the team.
She excels in all aspects of her role, from administrative and finance support to managing social media and assisting with youth engagement events.
She has demonstrated innovation by developing a YO Bendigo trainee guide for future trainees.
Leon Moulden
Youth Lead, City of Greater Bendigo
What great night at the AEN Apprentice & Trainee Awards night at the Melbourne Town Hall.
Congratulations Caitlin on this fabulous achievement. Your passion and energy were infectious. I’m very proud of the support our team at CVGT has provided to Caitlin, along with our great partner and host employer, the City of Greater Bendigo.
Jason Russell
CEO CVGT Employment
About Apprenticeship Employment Network and the Apprentice Training Awards
The Apprenticeship Employment Network (AEN) is the peak industry body representing not-for-profit group training companies across Victoria and is part of a national network of group training associations.
The AEN’s Apprentice Training Awards celebrate excellence in vocational education and training, recognising apprentices and trainees who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and resilience, as well as host employers and industry partners who support their success.
This year’s event brought together finalists from across Victoria to acknowledge their hard work, dedication, and impact on their communities.
Acknowledging our finalists
CVGT Employment also congratulates our other finalists for their exceptional contributions:
- Erin Aldous – Women in Trades
- Keeley Lee – Overcoming Adversity
- CVGT Employment and City of Greater Bendigo – Industry Collaboration
Each finalist has demonstrated remarkable commitment and made a positive difference in their workplaces and communities.
We extend our congratulations to all winners and finalists for their achievements and thank AEN and GAN Australia for hosting an event that celebrates the transformative power of apprenticeships and traineeships.
CVGT Employment’s Apprenticeship and Traineeship program
CVGT Employment offers a comprehensive Apprenticeship and Traineeship program designed to help individuals build rewarding careers while gaining nationally recognised qualifications. Whether you’re a recent school leaver, looking to change careers, or re-entering the workforce, CVGT Employment provides the support and opportunities you need to succeed. Our program combines practical work experience with structured training, allowing you to earn while you learn. With a focus on matching you to the right industry and host employer, we ensure you receive the best possible start to your career.
Join us at CVGT Employment and take the first step towards a fulfilling career. Register your interest today and be the first to hear about new opportunities!