General News
30 September, 2025
Top trade student credits support for amazing comeback
A life-threatening brain infection sidelined Brianna Thirlwall from her fledgling career.
For Brianna Thirlwall, the road to becoming an auto electrician hasn’t been easy.
But with determination – and the backing of her employer Glencore – she has not only pushed through challenges but risen to become the Female Trade Student of the Year at the Mount Isa TAFE Trade Excellence Awards.
Brianna is completing her apprenticeship with Glencore in the rebuild light vehicle workshop, training through the TAFE Queensland Mount Isa campus.
She is now just weeks away from finishing her Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.
Brianna’s journey has not been without its setbacks.
Last year, a brain infection left her unable to walk, talk or read.
“It was so scary, because we didn’t know how much I would recover, or if I could even finish my apprenticeship,” she said.
“I had to ease back into everything, even the simple stuff. But Glencore and TAFE were there the whole way, making sure I could come back when I was ready.”
Glencore paused her apprenticeship while she was in the hospital and kept in regular contact.
“They called me every week to see how I was going,” Brianna said.
“When I came back, they were really accommodating. If I needed help on a competency, they’d bring in a specific vehicle for me. They went out of their way to help me catch up, and that meant a lot.”
Glencore’s coordinator of pathway programs, Kate Sutton, said Brianna’s story showed the impact of strong support systems.
“At Glencore, we’re committed to creating real pathways for women to thrive in trades, and Brianna’s journey is a powerful example of what’s possible when talent is backed by genuine support,” she said.
“Her resilience and determination are nothing short of extraordinary, and we’re incredibly proud to have walked alongside her on this journey.
“After facing a major health setback, Brianna showed unwavering commitment to her trade and her future. Many in her position may have chosen a different path, but she came back stronger, more focused, and more determined than ever.
That level of perseverance is truly inspiring, and it speaks volumes about her character.
“Women continue to be underrepresented in trade careers, and that’s something we’re actively working to change.
“It’s about more than just opportunity; it’s about creating an environment where women are encouraged, supported, and empowered to succeed.”
“Brianna’s journey highlights the incredible potential of women in trades when they’re supported and encouraged to succeed. Her determination, even in the face of adversity, is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we invest in people and create inclusive pathways.
“She’s not only achieving her goals, she’s also paving the way for others to follow.”
Brianna said that Glencore’s backing made a real difference for women starting out in male-dominated industries.
“Most of the guys in the industry have been really supportive,” she said.
“There are always a few people out there that don’t think women belong, but you keep showing up and proving you can do the job. Having Glencore behind us made that easier.”
Brianna’s trade journey began in high school, where she completed a Certificate II in Electrotechnology through TAFE at School.
That gave her the head start she needed to step into a trade career.
“I was always interested in electrical work and helping my brothers with cars,” she said.
“So, I thought I’d give auto electrical a crack – and it turned out to be pretty amazing.”
Since then, she’s worked across different Glencore sites, from working on LandCruisers, to fault-finding and stripping out a whole harness to find a corroded wire.
“The variety has been the best part. You get so much exposure to different things, and no two days are the same, she said.
“And having a variety of TAFE teachers with different experiences in different industries was definitely a bonus.”
With her apprenticeship almost complete, Brianna is focused on enjoying the final stretch and preparing for what’s next.
“I think I’ll keep building on the skills I have and see where it takes me.”
TAFE Queensland North director Maree Butler said it was encouraging to see more women following Brianna’s path.
“In Mount Isa, the percentage of women in traineeships and apprenticeships at TAFE Queensland has risen from 8 per cent to 13 per cent over the past three years,” she said.
“It’s great progress, but we are committed to building on this momentum.”
“By increasing the number of women in trades, we’re not just addressing workforce demand – we’re driving innovation, improving workplace culture, and creating more inclusive, dynamic industries.”
Brianna hopes her story helps more women to take the leap.
“I’d absolutely encourage other young women to give trades a go,” she said.
“It’s a challenge, but it has been so rewarding. And I wouldn’t be here without the support I’ve had along the way.”