Morgan Clementson has baked her way to the top of her game, beating thousands of apprentices to be named Apprentice of the Year in the NSW Training Awards.

Also recently named the Illawarra Institute’s Apprentice of the Year, the award cements Morgan as one of the most outstanding young professionals across all industries and registered training organisations in the state.

Starting her working life in administration and human resources, Morgan decided to pursue her love for baking full time at age 27.

“I’ve always loved the whole baking process; perfecting the intricate steps involved in baking the ideal product and sharing my creations with friends and family,” she said.

“I enrolled in a Certificate III in Food Processing – Retail Baking (Bread) and a Certificate III in Food Processing – Retail Baking (Combined) at TAFE Illawarra and my passion ignited. My teachers and mentors spurred me on and now I encourage others to take advantage of the opportunities in the baking industry.”

Morgan, who is currently working for a boutique bakery in Sydney’s Alexandria, said she is dedicated to driving the industry forward.

“My next goal is to open my own business. This is already in action thanks to a TAFE Illawarra scholarship I received to study a Certificate IV in Business. TAFE has been a major catalyst in helping me to achieve and this award is the icing on the cake,” she said. “

TAFE Illawarra Baking Trades head teacher Peter Hood nominated Morgan for the award and said he’s not surprised by her continued success.

“Morgan is one of the most dedicated and passionate students I’ve come across in my time as a teacher,” Peter said.

“Her willingness to learn and push herself should be an inspiration to everyone. She has a passion for a challenge, a hunger for success and is living proof that you can achieve anything you put your mind to.”

Morgan will now represent NSW in the National Awards, which will be held in Perth in November.

“I hope to encourage others to follow in my footsteps. This is just the beginning of things to come,” she said, thanking TAFE Illawarra staff, including her teachers John Baker, Peter Hood and Charles Janszen.