Adelaide Kennedy, a recent graduate from the Australian Trade College North Brisbane (ATCNB) isn’t just stepping into a career in heavy diesel – she’s revving up for it. She recently took home the top honours at ATCNB, proudly securing the prestigious 2025 Trade College Excellence DUX Award, the highly sought-after Petrie Shield for Success in Industry, and even the Year 12 General English Excellence Award.
“Honestly, it was a bit surprising,” Adelaide said. Her journey into heavy diesel wasn’t a sudden decision; it was sparked years ago on her family’s farm. “Growing up, I was always fixing machines, tractors, working with hydraulics with my dad,” she said. “That’s where it all started.”
Following in the footsteps of her dad, Adelaide wanted to jumpstart her trade career studying a Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology, “My mum thought I’d get more out of an apprentice school instead of staying at my previous school,” she said.
ATCNB wasn’t just a college for Adelaide; it was a launchpad. She enjoyed the college’s flexible and supportive environment that truly let her shine. “Being able to work two days a week and only having to do these three subjects, but still coming out with a Grade 12 certificate – that was huge,” she said.
And it wasn’t just the structure; the people made a difference too. “The teachers were really good. “They made it fun to be around.”
But Adelaide’s ambition didn’t stop at her studies and apprenticeship. She also stepped up as a Student Ambassador, driven by a clear vision for her future. “I’m looking ahead, wanting to be a supervisor one day,” she said. “Getting some leadership skills and experience early on, rather than trying to learn it later when I’m older, just made sense.”
Two years into her apprenticeship with Hastings Deering, Adelaide is already halfway through her apprenticeship at just 17. She’s hands-on, learning everything from diagnosing and repairing to completely rebuilding machinery. ” The people are good, the work’s awesome and everyday is a good day,” she said.
Once she wraps up her apprenticeship, her sights are set on the Diesel Fitting industry with a long-term goal of working as a supervisor in the mines, “I’m really excited for it,” she said.
Of course, the jump from student life to full-time work has its moments. “It hits you pretty hard when you realise that it’s all done and you’ve just got work,” she said. But even with that reality check, her passion for her chosen career shines through. For anyone considering a trade, Adelaide’s message is clear: “Definitely go for it, especially if you want to do a trade. ATCNB is really good, it helps you with your trade, and you get a lot more experience.”
College Principal Brett Kavanagh said Adelaide is an example of hard work and determination, “She eagerly completed her studies to the highest level both at the college and throughout her trade training and industry placements. She has a bright future ahead of her. Adelaide isn’t just a graduate; she’s a trailblazer, proving that with a clear vision, unwavering dedication, and the right support, young people can build incredible futures,” Mr Kavanagh said.