The winner of the Capricorn Rising Stars has been announced.
Third year apprentice Gabrielle Clift, from Highfields Mechanical and Off Road in QLD, is the Capricorn Rising Star for 2020. Capricorn Rising Stars helps Members recognise, reward and retain high-performing apprentices. These are apprentices who show initiative in the workshop, eagerness to learn and commitment to the auto industry. By recognising the contribution of automotive apprentices and the bright careers they have ahead of them, we hope to continue to attract the best talent and keep more auto repairers working in the industry.
Gabrielle’s journey into the automotive industry began at an early age, helping her father work on his truck. After a gap year driving trucks, tractors, front-end loaders, and other heavy vehicles herself, Gabrielle decided to live out her dream and start her apprenticeship.
“I originally just wanted to work in heavy diesel but honestly, coming to Highfields has been the best change. There is just so much variety. From tuning to mechanical servicing to wheel alignments to four-wheel drives to suspension kits, even the occasional truck – we do it all, and I get to work on everything.”
“I am very humbled and honoured to receive this award. I’d like to congratulate all the other hard working and deserving nominees who are forging a career in automotive.”
In another extremely competitive Capricorn Rising Stars class, Gabrielle stood out with the attention to detail demonstrated throughout her application, according to Rising Star Judge and Capricorn Automotive CEO Brad Gannon.
“It was highly encouraging to see the level of dedication to her craft and awareness on what success should look like. This includes reports on the outstanding level of work she completes as well as the extra mile she goes for her workshop’s customers. I have no doubt that Gabrielle is poised to achieve some amazing things in the automotive industry,” Mr. Gannon said.
Highfields Mechanical owner Craig Baills was equally as effusive when describing Gabrielle’s work.
“From the interview, we realised that Gabby had an attitude that couldn’t be taught and a work ethic that is rare and this was the basis of her employment with us. As an apprentice, she is willing, eager, and always wanting for more. Willing to try her hand at anything and learn the underpinning knowledge to understand all the systems of modern automotive. To us, she is now an integral part of our team and an employee that improves the performance of those around her. Our industry will only benefit by the caliber of her attitude, desire to learn and willingness to be the best she can”, said Mr. Baills
As Capricorn Rising Stars winner, Gabrielle will receive a special Supercars Experience package from Castrol. She’ll also benefit from leadership academy training from The Workshop Whisperer to further fast-track her development as a leader of the future.
Capricorn congratulates Gabrielle and all the 2020 Capricorn Rising Stars nominees. There is little doubt the future is in safe hands with so many outstanding apprentices benefiting from learning from Capricorn Members.
Capricorn Rising Stars is proudly supported by Capricorn Preferred Suppliers and program sponsors Castrol, Repco, The Workshop Whisperer, Autodata Training and TaT.
For more information on Capricorn visit www.capricorn.coop