Nineteen year old panel beater Matt Harris took out the coveted award for the 2009 State Collision Repair Apprentice of the Year.

The State Apprenticeship and Management Programme is an initiative set up in conjunction with the NZ Motor Industry Training Organisation (Inc) (MITO) and the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) to encourage more people into the vehicle repair and building industries nationwide.

Matt is completing his apprenticeship with MITO while working at Wally Sutherland Ltd in Whakatane.

Up against 30 candidates from around the country, Matt held his own through a tough selection process.

"I was stoked to be chosen for a scholarship place a year ago and to win this award now is such an honour. State's scholarship made such a difference as it allowed me to focus on my studies" said Matt.

"My family were really surprised and proud when I told them the news, as I wasn't the best at school. But this opportunity really gave me a push and I just focused on the work and learning my trade". Please find attached media release with more details and photo of Matt.