Published on the 18th July 2025 by ANSTO Staff
In a story that proves hard work and determination truly pay off, local apprentice, Owain Cooper-Sims has defied the odds to fast track his training and become a fully qualified tradesperson in fabrication and welding – completing his studies and certification in record time.
Owain’s journey started like many students – juggling school and part time jobs. First flipping pizzas at the local store and then fixing bikes at the neighbourhood bike repair shop, Owain always had a knack for working with his hands. But it was during his final years of school, when he enrolled in a TVET course covering electrotechnology and manufacturing and engineering, that he discovered his real passion – fabrication and welding.
That passion led him to an apprenticeship with Apprenticeship Careers Australia, hosted onsite at ANSTO’s Engineering Support Workshop, where he quickly made a name for himself as a dedicated and driven young worker. Each day, Owain commuted from the Tullimbar to Lucas Heights, and once a week, he caught the train to TAFE at Ultimo, often clocking a 12-hour day. On top of that, he took on extra night classes at TAFE in Campbelltown to further sharpen his skills.
Owain just didn’t tick boxes – he exceeded expectations. He successfully completed his Certificate in Fabrication, earned his 1554 welding certificate and is now in the final stages of completing his 1796 qualification. His commitment didn’t stop there – he regularly worked weekends and put in the extra hours to support himself and get hands-on experience.
Not one to shy away from big projects, Owain contributed to the 2024 ANSTO OPAL reactor Cold Neutron Source Replacement Project by helping to build and install a shielding wall. He took the lead on major assignments including Waste Tank fabrication and Radon Detectors, which proved not only his skills but his leadership and initiative.
So why did he want to stay at ANSTO? For Owain, the answer was clear: “There is a good variety of work, the team is great, and there’s so much experience and knowledge still to learn. I get to work across site and in the workshop, which keeps things interesting.”
Owain’s story is a testament to the opportunities and rewards of a trade career, and he encourages other young people to consider the path: “If you’ve got an eye for detail and drive to make things, fabrication and welding is a great career. I’ve loved every moment of it.”
From a young student working late-night shifts to a qualified tradesperson taking ownership of his jobs, Owain’s journey is an inspiring reminder of what’s possible when talent meets tenacity.
