The 24 year-old now lives in Swan Hill and has been nominated for the Kangan Institute Inspirational TAFE Student Award.
It recognises an individual enrolled in a TAFE course that has overcome adversity to find success in their educational field.
She is one of of four finalists in this category.
‘‘I was pretty shocked (to be a finalist) to be honest. I didn’t think I stood a chance,’’ Miss Price said.
‘‘But I have done pretty well for myself in the past two years.
‘‘I finished TAFE really early and have helped with a few things for schools and expo or industry days.
‘‘I just give everything a good crack.’’
Miss Price moved to Swan Hill in 2018 to undertake training at the Sunraysia Institute of TAFE and complete her heavy diesel mechanical apprenticeship with Cummins.
‘‘My dad (Greg, who still lives in Deniliquin) is my inspiration,’’ Miss Price said.
‘‘He has always been there to support me no matter what.
‘‘If I wanted to get my hands dirty he would show me what to do.
‘‘After I finish my apprenticeship I hope to stay with Cummins, but I wouldn’t mind doing a bit of field service or even move up into management.
‘‘I like going out to schools and talking to boys and girls, being able to tell them that a trade is a great thing.
‘‘They push university so much in high school, but it is not for everyone.
‘‘I grew up on the farm with my family so I have always enjoyed getting my hands dirty.
‘‘I did go to uni, at Charles Sturt in Albury to do health and rehabilitation, but it just wasn’t for me and it doesn’t have to be for anyone else either.’’
Miss Price’s advice to anyone considering a trade, especially women, is to ‘‘give it a crack’’.
‘‘The dynamics are changing,’’ she said.
‘‘The heavy diesel mechanical industry is a male dominated industry, and you do get a few difficult customers, but opinions are slowly changing.
‘‘So my advice to anyone wanting to give it a go, is to just do it.’’
Winners will be announced at a gala dinner in Melbourne on June 12.
13°C