IPSWICH has a new local success story in the trades, with carpenter Jessica Bichsel winning the prestigious Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year at the 2025 Queensland Training Awards.
Jessica, who switched from a career in tourism to carpentry, has already built an impressive portfolio creating sets for theatre, film, and television.
Her commitment and skill saw her stand out from more than 740 nominations across Queensland.
“This award is a huge honour,” Jessica said.
“Carpentry has opened so many opportunities for me, and I hope my story inspires others to follow their passion and explore careers in the trades. Anything is possible if you back yourself.”
Jessica began her apprenticeship at 21, after trying roles in tourism, aged care, hospitality, and call centres.
“Nothing felt right,” she said. “I lost my job in 2019, moved back home with Dad, and he said, ‘Come and do a trade with me.’ A few months later, I was offered an apprenticeship, and I haven’t looked back since.”
She completed the first two years of her apprenticeship with her father, learning hands-on skills on-site.
“I did all my training on site because we couldn’t afford six-week blocks away,” she said. “That experience taught me more than I could have imagined.”
Jessica now works as a subcontractor with Skillset Building and Ice Works Design for Production.
“I’ve been able to build a career for myself,” she said. “Dave Beckett from Skillset Building was a real inspiration – he’s a musician, a creative artist, a set builder, and a carpenter. I took so much from him.”
As a female in a traditionally male-dominated field, Jessica said she is keen to encourage others.
“Being on stage to accept the award in front of 700 people was overwhelming enough, but to win Apprentice of the Year as a female carpenter was incredible,” she said.
“I’m excited to show that if you back yourself, amazing things can happen.”
The Queensland Training Awards celebrate apprentices, trainees, teachers, and employers who are transforming lives and strengthening Queensland’s workforce.
Jessica will now represent the State at the 2025 Australian Training Awards in Darwin this December.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates praised the winners. “From Jessica breaking ground in construction to others making a difference in their communities, these awards show how training is creating opportunities right across Queensland,” she said.
