An Armidale hairdresser who was crowned New England’s Apprentice of the Year earlier this year has now gone one better, taking out the title across the whole of NSW and earning a shot at the national stage in November.
Nikita Wells, who completed her Certificate III in Hairdressing through TAFE NSW while apprenticed at Cooper & Co Hairdressing, won the Apprentice of the Year category at the 2026 NSW Training Awards, announced today Wednesday, 26 August. She was recognised for her strong technical ability, professionalism and a passion for delivering exceptional client experiences.
It caps a big 12 months for Ms Wells, a 2025 WorldSkills national finalist who has also featured on billboards around Armidale. Earlier this year she also won the Curate Awards Regional Australia 2026.
“Hairdressing has become such a huge passion of mine, and I’m incredibly proud to be representing regional Australia and the New England area through this opportunity,” Ms Wells said.
Ms Wells said her craft was about more than technique.
“Hair has the power to completely change how a person feels about themselves and being able to play a part in that transformation is incredibly rewarding,” Ms Wells said.
“This career allows me to express creativity while also making a meaningful impact on others.”
“This pathway was the right choice for me as it provided the opportunity to learn in a practical environment while working toward a nationally recognised qualification.”
“Learning on the job has strengthened my technical skills, communication, professionalism and time management.”
Skilled learners, teachers and organisations from across NSW were celebrated at the 71st NSW Training Awards for their achievement in vocational education and training, with regional NSW sweeping the individual categories this year.
New England had a second win at this year’s awards, with Homes North Community Housing’s Joanne Campbell taking out the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year category for her Certificate IV in Housing.
Regional NSW dominated the individual categories at the 71st NSW Training Awards overall, with winners also announced in vocational education and training across agriculture, business and community services.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said the results reflected the strength of regional training.
“I am incredibly proud to see the outstanding talent emerging from our regional and rural communities at this year’s NSW Training Awards,” Minister Whan said.
“It’s no coincidence that regional NSW dominated this year’s awards.”
“From agriculture and construction to community services, local government and the trades, regional communities are helping deliver the skilled workers our economy depends on.”
Ms Wells will now go on to represent NSW at the 2026 Australian Training Awards in November.
Don’t miss any of the important stories from around the region. Subscribe to our email list.