Phil Cooper named finalist for Koorie Student of the Year

Phil Cooper has been named a finalist for Koorie Student of the Year at the 2026 Victorian Training Awards, recognising his commitment to learning, professional development and career progression in civil construction.  

Phil's recognition highlights the impact of investing in capability and creating opportunities for our people to build meaningful careers. 

Across Symal Group, we support apprenticeship, trainee and development pathways that help our people gain qualifications, build experience and develop new skills. These pathways create opportunities, but their success ultimately depends on the individuals who are prepared to invest in their own growth.  

As part of his development journey, Phil participated in Wamarra's Bulabul program and progressed into a Leading Hand role. His journey demonstrates the value of combining personal ambition with meaningful development opportunities.  

Ashleigh Nugent, Learning & Development Manager, said: 

"Phil's nomination is a credit to him and the work he's put in. Our apprenticeship pathway is there to give people the training, mentoring and support to build a real career in civil construction, and Phil has made the most of every part of it. Seeing him recognised at a state level is a proud moment for us."  

Phil Cooper reflected: 

"Undertaking my qualification while working full-time and taking on leadership responsibilities challenged me to keep learning and improving every day. The experience has given me confidence in my ability to contribute at every level of a civil construction project and continue building my career." 

Across Symal Group, 59 active apprentices and trainees are currently participating in structured development pathways across civil construction, landscaping, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, work health and safety, and project management. These programs provide mentoring, practical experience and nationally recognised qualifications that help our people build capability and progress their careers.  

Importantly, these pathways create opportunities beyond entry-level roles, supporting progression into supervisory and leadership positions while strengthening capability and succession planning across the Group.  

Phil's recognition is a testament to both the opportunities available and the commitment required to make the most of them. It highlights the impact of investing in our people and helping them reach their full potential. 

Congratulations to Phil on this well-deserved achievement and wish him the best of luck at the Victorian Training Awards.