Zac Payseno is living his dream job and after just two years he's been named Agricultural Equipment Holdings' (AEH) 2024 Apprentice of the Year.
The 18-year-old from Parkes has humble beginnings - at 15 he spent his days after school and during school holidays helping out at McPhersons Parts and Service who are a dealer under AEH.
"It was to build up my experience and get my foot in the door," Zac said.
So when his two weeks of Year 10 experience through Red Bend Catholic College came around, there was no question where he was going to spend his time.
"By then I had made up my mind that's what I wanted to do," Zac said.
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At the end of the two weeks McPhersons offered him an apprenticeship.
He was that eager to start that when the floods hit the region at the end of 2022, closing the school and cancelling the end-of-year exams, he didn't hesitate to request to leave.
His first day of his apprenticeship, which involves him studying Certificate III in Agricultural Technology, was November 28 that year.
"It's basically the work of a heavy diesel mechanic, I do a lot of work with headers," Zac said.
AEH has branches in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania and each nominates an apprentice, from first year to fourth, they think worthy of the recognition of Apprentice of the Year, while also considering factors such as work ethic, teamwork, attendance, alignment with AEH values and career progression.
"Zac, a second-year apprentice at our Parkes branch, has truly excelled in all these areas," AEH said in its Apprentice of the Year announcement.
Over the last 12 months Zac had demonstrated an incredible eagerness to learn and grow his skill set.
He willingly stepped up to take on additional responsibilities, especially during a challenging harvest season and he confidently tackled header checks and repairs with minimal guidance, proving his capability and initiative.
AEH said his paperwork is always completed on time, neat, and accurate.
"Furthermore, Zac consistently embodies the values of teamwork and helpfulness, contributing to the positive culture at McPhersons," AEH said.
"His commitment to safety and quality standards is unwavering."
Zac said the announcement caught him by surprise but reassured him he was on the right track with his work.
"I was taken back by it," he admitted.
And proving he loves a challenge and thrives under stressful conditions, Zac said his favourite part of the job was working during harvest.
"It's our busiest time of the year but I love it, I love the rush of harvest," he said.
Zac’s dedication has also been recognised by his TAFE instructors, who have described him as an exceptional student who consistently excels in both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
"His work ethic, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities set him apart from his peers," one of his mentors said.
"Zac’s maturity, professionalism, and willingness to take on challenges make him a standout apprentice.
"He’s not only reliable and punctual but also deeply passionate about agricultural mechanics, always striving to grow and contribute meaningfully to the industry.”
AEH added "his proactive approach, can-do attitude, and eagerness to take on feedback have made him an invaluable member of the McPhersons and AEH team".
