2019 Apprentice of the Year: Jessica Scott-Smith

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Having volunteered with Parks Victoria and completing The Green Army project in 2016, Jessica found she had a passion for Horticulture. From then on, Jessica was determined to undertake further learning and training within this field. Upon completion of her first year at TAFE, Jessica was nominated by her teacher for Swinburne’s Pathways and Vocational Education (PAVE) where she received an award for “Overall Best 1st Year Apprentice in Parks and Garden.”

Since completing the qualification component of her apprenticeship, Jessica has gained experience in plant identification, safe use of tools and small machinery and nursery management including stocktakes and propagation. Jessica has contributed to many projects at her host employer such as revegetation, weed and pest management, while learning and adhering to OH&S policies.

Jessica enjoys working within a team. She believes teamwork improves productivity and allows her to gain maximum exposure and learn from the many attributes and skills of the trade mentors she is lucky to work alongside. Earlier in the year, Jessica’s immediate supervisor took extended leave. During his absence Jessica, on top of her daily duties, carried out the administration duties her supervisor would have actioned such as setting up the roster, printing out required tasks for the week ahead and various other roles that required tech savvy knowledge.