Apprentice Amber Gabelich named National Collision Repairer Future Leader

The National Collision Repairer has named Kangan Institute autobody apprentice Amber Gabelich a Future Leader amongst autobody technicians in the country.

Sponsored by Insurance Australia Group (IAG), the award was presented to Amber by IAG representatives on 21 February at Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence in Docklands.

Amber is no stranger to achievement – last year she clinched a bronze medal at the national WorldSkills Australia competition and subsequently received a BBM Skilled Futures Program Scholarship, a joint initiative by WorldSkills Australia and BBM Youth Support to offer medallists an opportunity to travel abroad and undertake work experience.   

Currently working at Riviera Panels in Bairnsdale, Amber’s journey began with a passion for cars and encouragement from her boyfriend to take on a pre-apprenticeship at Kangan Institute.

“I feel very proud of myself. My training at Kangan Institute has helped me achieve everything I have had so far, from competing in WorldSkills to receiving this award,” said Ms. Gabelich.

Kangan Institute CEO Trevor Schwenke congratulated Amber on her latest accomplishment, citing her journey from pre-apprenticeship to award-winning technician as an inspiration to others.

“We’re proud that Amber’s training at Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence has played a part in her achievements,” said Mr. Schwenke.

“Her example is an inspiration to others. It says that anyone can start their journey from the basics and work their way up to success.”   

The Future Leaders award includes vouchers to complete two I-CAR training courses as part of professional development in collision repair specific skills.

“I’m looking forward to completing I-CAR training. It’s a big thing in the industry currently and it’ll be great to further my skills,” said Ms. Gabelich.

Ms. Gabelich’s next steps for 2019 include completing work experience in the United States as part of the BBM scholarship.