Auto elec apprentice among top Rising Stars

Tracing a remote locking fault on a Toyota Aqua back to the ignition key reminder circuit, after other technicians had been stumped, is one of the reasons Gisborne apprentice auto electrician Carter Boyle has been named New Zealand Winner in the 2026 Capricorn Rising Stars Awards.

Carter, 18, is completing an Automotive Engineering Level 3 qualification while undertaking his apprenticeship with Eastland Auto Electrical. He has also been involved in projects exploring the repurposing of EV batteries for off-grid solar applications.

Eastland Auto Electrical Director Scott Wootton said Carter’s initiative, reliability and technical capability had earned him a level of trust that is uncommon at his stage of career.

“He takes ownership of his learning, embraces challenges and approaches every task with professionalism and determination,” he said.

Carter said what excited him most was how quickly the industry was evolving, particularly with EVs, hybrid systems and the growing level of electronics in modern vehicles.

In Australia, 20-year-old Jaeden Matteo D’Aloia from Eltham took out the overall title after winning the Victoria/Tasmania regional award. He is completing a Certificate III in Light Vehicle Technology at Box Hill TAFE while undertaking his apprenticeship with Technique Automotive, Melbourne.

Owner Alex Hicks said Jaeden had exceeded expectations from the moment he joined the business.

“We’ve been able to trust him with increasingly complex work because of his ability to problem solve, his attention to detail and the pride he takes in every job,” he said.

Jaeden said the constant change across the industry was one of the reasons he enjoyed his career. He wants to become a well-rounded technician who can work across petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles.

Capricorn Group CEO Brad Gannon said both winners showed the commitment the industry needs. He said vehicles were becoming more technical every year and the trade needed people prepared to keep learning throughout their careers.

Now in their ninth year, the Capricorn Rising Stars Awards recognise automotive apprentices across Australia and New Zealand, with Regional Winners named alongside the two Overall Winners.

For more workshop news and industry updates, subscribe to Auto Elec & Air Con Magazine.