Miss Tyrrell was honoured for her academic achievement and positive work ethic at the prestigious 2019 TAFE NSW Excellence Awards in Albury on Thursday.

After completing a Certificate III in Electrotechnology at TAFE NSW Leeton last year, Miss Tyrrell was announced as the winner of the infrastructure, energy and construction student of the year at the gala awards ceremony.

The awards recognise the pinnacle of achievement for TAFE NSW students across 29 campuses in southern NSW.

Miss Tyrrell said she "shocked but honoured" to win the award and hoped it would inspire other young women to consider a career in the traditionally male-dominated trades.

"I'm really surprised to win such a big award but I'm also honoured," she said.

"Whether you're a male or female shouldn't determine what trade you do and I hope me winning this award sends a positive message to other young women who might be thinking about a career in the trades.

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"I was really lucky to have great teachers are electrotechnology facilities at my (Leeton) TAFE NSW campus and lucky to have an employer like SunRice prepared to give me an opportunity."

Miss Tyrrell had a realization at age 24 that she wanted to be an electrician and was offered the opportunity to become an "older" apprentice with SunRice, where she was working in another capacity.

TAFE NSW regional general manager Kerry Penton commended the winners for setting a benchmark in their chosen areas of study and helping inspire other students to follow suit.

"These awards recognise our most passionate, industrious and skilful students, and the fact teachers are the ones who nominate the students makes it even more special," Ms Penton said.

"I have no doubt these students will go on to forge highly successful careers and will be wonderful ambassadors for TAFE NSW. (We are) proud to equip students with practical skills and work experience so they're ready to hit the ground running in their chosen field."

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