Yanco Agricultural College Year 12 student Charlie Degnan has just been named as the NSW Vet in Schools Student of the Year at the NSW Training Awards ceremony at Sydney Town Hall.

Charlie is an example of the quality of the vocational education opportunities provided at the school.

His state title is for his Certificate III in Agriculture qualification, delivered at Yanco by teaching staff.

Regional NSW swept the individual categories at the 2026 NSW Training Awards with a Sydney student who relocated to the country to study agriculture securing the VET in Schools Student of the Year award.

Skilled learners, teachers and organisations were all celebrated at the 71st NSW Training Awards for achieving excellence in vocational education and training (VET).

Growing up by the sea in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire did not stop Charlie Degnan from winning the VET in Schools Student of the Year category for his work in agriculture.  

Charlie moved to the Murrumbidgee in southern NSW to board at Yanco Agricultural High School so he could pursue his dream to work in the ag-finance industry. The school captain has already developed expertise in cattle herd health and gained a real-world understanding of primary agricultural production.

The results underscore the growing importance of vocational education and training in addressing workforce shortages across key industries including agriculture, housing, construction, care services and local government, particularly in regional NSW.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said: 

“I am incredibly proud to see the outstanding talent emerging from our regional and rural communities at this year’s NSW Training Awards.

“These skilled learners and trainers demonstrate the incredible talent being nurtured through vocational education and training across NSW, no matter where they live.

“It’s no coincidence that regional NSW dominated this year’s awards. From agriculture and construction to community services, local government and the trades, regional communities are helping deliver the skilled workers our economy depends on.

“For too long there was a view that success only came through a university degree. The Minns Labor government is backing skills, training and TAFE with a record $3.46 billion investment in the 2026-27 Budget because we know there are many pathways to a rewarding career, and VET is opening doors to secure jobs while helping tackle skills shortages in the industries that keep NSW moving.

“Congratulations to all the winners and finalists as they prepare to represent NSW on the national stage.”

VET in Schools Student of the Year, Charlie Degnan, said:

“Not growing up on a farm was a challenge and it felt like a block to entering the industry. But with the skills I have learnt from the course, I feel capable to pursue my dream career.  

“I wanted to enter the agricultural financial industry and knew I needed hands-on experience to give me a real-world understanding of primary agricultural production.

“After studying the course, I have gained a passion for practical work and farm operations, which I believe is a necessity to thrive in this field.  

“Connecting with industry professionals and experts has helped me understand the dynamics of the industry and construct what I want, not only for my agricultural career but also for the industry itself.”

Presented by the NSW Department of Education’s Training Services, the NSW Training Awards recognise the vital role of VET in building the skilled workforce NSW needs to support economic growth and stronger communities.