Young Geraldton sparky named top apprentice

Geraldton electrician Sean Chadwick is no complainer.

According to GCO Electrical boss Anthony Opalinski, he’s usually first to arrive at work and last to leave.

He dives into chores and housekeeping duties without whining, and when he’s not even expected to work, he takes on jobs most workers “would not bother about”.

So it was no surprise when the 21-year-old was nominated and won Rotary Club of Geraldton’s Apprentice of the Year award.

“Just sticking my head down and getting on with it helped me get the award I suppose,” Mr Chadwick said.

The electrician said the plan to become a sparky started in Year 9 after discussing career options with his parents.

After explaining he enjoyed being outside and fixing things in his shed, his parents suggested researching electrical work, because it was a “good, clean trade”.

“So, I did some work experience, really liked it, and then started my apprenticeship with GCO and ATC Midwest in 2016,” Mr Chadwick said. “Just qualified to become an electrician in June.”

Mr Chadwick’s nomination was propelled and supported by GCO Electrical and ATC Midwest.

Rotary Club of Geraldton’s annual award for apprentices finishing training was first given to Ron O’Malley in 1964.