Three finalists have been named in the Industry Leadership In Workforce Development Award category of the 2025 Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia National Awards.
The Industry Leadership In Workforce Development Award recognises an HVIA member organisation that has demonstrated outstanding leadership, commitment and innovation in building the future workforce of the heavy vehicle industry.
The company may do this by delivering strong apprenticeship or trainee programs, fostering school-to-industry pathways, partnering with training providers, creating inclusive learning cultures, or investing in the development and retention of skilled employees.
Whether large or small, the award celebrates organisations that turn commitment into action – creating real, lasting workforce outcomes.
CMV Truck & Bus: Growing Its Own
With a 20-year apprenticeship program, SMART goals for all staff and a state-of-the-art training facility at Derrimut, CMV has built a scalable model for workforce capability.
Programs like TechEdge support technician upskilling, while mentoring, career guidance and values-based learning foster confident, ethical professionals. High retention rates and internal career progression reflect the strength of CMV’s approach, positioning the business as a training-focused employer of choice in the heavy vehicle industry.
Cummins Apprenticeship Program: Powering Your Potential
Cummins’ “Powering Your Potential” Apprenticeship Program is building a future-ready workforce through inclusive recruitment, hands-on training and long-term career development.
With applicant numbers more than doubling since 2022 and female representation reaching 30 per cent in 2024, the program reflects Cummins’ commitment to diversity and industry capability.
Structured onboarding, regional training hubs and dedicated capability coaches ensure apprentices gain real-world skills and confidence. Attrition rates have dropped from 30 per cent to just two per cent in three years, supported by mentoring, rotations and access to global education pathways.
By investing in its people and partnering across education and industry, Cummins is setting a benchmark for workforce development in the heavy vehicle sector.
The Drake Group: Building From Within
The Drake Group demonstrates workforce leadership through a holistic, values-driven strategy focused on growing its own talent. With an in-house apprenticeship program, structured mentoring and strong partnerships with RTOs and schools, Drake is building future skills while promoting diversity and inclusion across the sector.
Retention has risen to 88 per cent, female apprentice representation has tripled, and 90 per cent of the 2025 intake came through school-based work experience. By embedding leadership development, psychological safety and real-world feedback into its programs, Drake is shaping a resilient, future-ready workforce and contributing meaningfully to industry capability.
The winners of the 2025 Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia National Awards will be announced at the HVIA 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner to be held on Thursday, December 4 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. Buy tickets here.
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