Mr O'Connor was awarded Federation University's Ronaldson Bros. and Tippett Founders Prize for excellence in his trade, engineering, at the 2019 TAFE Division Awards for Excellence.

The awards ceremony, in March, saw awards handed out for 30 different categories and also included the 2019 Craftsperson Awards which were presented to apprentices who completed their training at the university.

These awards are a joint initiative of the university, Rotary Club of Ballarat and the City of Ballarat.

Mr O'Connor has been completing his apprenticeship at Daylesford Engineering for the past three years and recently had it signed off. His trade teacher recognised his skill and nominated him for two awards - the award through Federation University as well as an award through the Rotary Club of Ballarat .

He was initially unsure about undertaking an apprenticeship but has not looked back since beginning it. Mr O'Connor said he enjoys his line of work at Daylesford Engineering, which completes a lot of general fabrication and engineering, but specialises in structural engineering.

"I've always had a pretty keen passion for working with metal. My dad's a carpenter so I've always been exposed to manual labour, problem solving and learning how to overcome situations," he said. 

"It's a good variety of work with good people to work for and with. There is always something different to keep your mind active and challenged." 

He is currently exploring his career options now that he is qualified.

"I am hoping to explore a little bit more later this year but am hoping to come back and maybe even start doing my own work and see how that takes off," he said.

"I am exceptionally grateful for Dan having put me on and all the opportunities that they have given me through work. I was particularly lucky to get a job here so close to home."

His boss Dan Chapman said Mr O'Connor was a hard worker who was always on time.