FOR Junee's Megan Lawrence, the most satisfying part of her job is seeing young people complete their apprenticeships.
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The NSW Business Chamber named Miss Lawrence as the regional winner of the outstanding young business executive.
"It's pretty unbelievable, I hadn't intended on nominating and hadn't expected to be named a finalist," she said.
Miss Lawrence said the list of finalists was impressive.
"It's a great feeling to be rewarded for the work and effort you've put in."
Six years ago, Miss Lawrence completed her HSC and the next day she walked into the GTES office in Wagga to begin a traineeship.
She is now the business's operations manager, overseeing up to 50 apprentices and trainees as they begin their careers.
"The best part of the job is seeing someone complete their apprenticeship, becoming a qualified tradesperson, giving them a good solid foundation for building their career," she said.
As well as the full-time job, Miss Lawrence has been studying at university, working towards a degree in business management and human resources.
"I'm seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. I should graduate in November," she said.
"It's been a long four years, trying to balance work and uni, but I've got great support structures in place and work has been very supportive."
Miss Lawrence said GTES was supportive of young people beginning their careers and encouraged their development.
Winner of the 2010 Junee Showgirl competition, Miss Lawrence said skills she had acquired during that time had played a role in her success.