Zelman Wilkinson – Victorian Training Awards 2025 – Koorie Student of the Year finalist

Zelman has always been a creative thinker and problem solver. A life-changing accident saw him spend six months in rehabilitation. Post-recovery, he tried a few career pathways, then his dad encouraged him to consider a trade. He has not looked back since enrolling in a Certificate II in Electrotechnology at Box Hill Institute, followed by a Certificate III in Electronics and Communications via a specialist communications company.

Zelman working with electrotechnology equipment

Through hands-on learning and being educated by industry experts, Zelman became a standout technician who is recognised for his fault-diagnosis skills. His teacher noted that his intuition and skill in solving complex problems was the best he had seen. He displayed strong leadership under pressure and generosity in mentoring younger apprentices.

Zelman is proudest of his work supporting remote First Nations communities where he redesigned communications infrastructure to ensure access in areas with little to no service. His technical excellence and commitment to helping others made him a vital team member.

Updated