Young baker headed for ultimate skills challenge

After profiling 11 up and coming young trades men and women, 19 year old Aidan Hauptli from Childers, QLD today rounds off our Regional Champion highlights, becoming our 12^th revealed national competitor heading to the 2014 WorldSkills Australia National Competition in Perth this September.

Aidan is set to compete against other young champion bakers from up to 31 regions across Australia in the pursuit of a gold medal and the title of – ‘Nation’s Best’.

Aidan, who completed his apprenticeship last year with Baking Industry Training Australia is currently employed by Childers Hot Bread and Cakes, will also be vying for a scholarship through one of WorldSkills Australia’s prestigious international pathways where he will be given the chance to pursue further skill development through study, work experience, overseas travel or financial support.

Aidan first got involved in baking from a very young age, “my father would tell me inspirational stories of his time baking and I always wanted to give it a go. When the time came around for me to be able to get an apprenticeship I chose retail baking and I fell in love with it straight away,” said Aidan.

“Winning gold at the Regional Competition was a fantastic experience, I enjoyed myself greatly and I’m very proud of this achievement,” said Aidan on his recent win.

“I feel very proud to be able to get the chance to compete against Australia’s finest bakers. Preparing for the National Competition has been a hectic but enjoyable time for me as I am training every day and also on weekends leading up to the event,” said Aidan about progressing to the 2014 WorldSkills Australia National Competition in Perth.