NSW Fair Trading Minister Virginia Judge this week presented Luke with the Apprentice of the Year Award (Panel Beating) at a ceremony in Sydney.

Ms Judge said Luke, who completed his apprenticeship at Tim Ryan Panel and Paint, was one of nine winners to receive a trophy and Holden jacket at the ceremony.

The Automotive Apprentice of the Year Awards cover seven trades - light and heavy vehicle mechanic, automotive electrician, panel beater, vehicle painter, motorcycle mechanic and motor body maker.

This year's winners came from Winmalee, Maroubra, Seven Hills, Wallendbeen, Jindabyne, Mulgoa, Ulladulla, Quakers Hill and Camden.

Ms Judge said Luke was a true inspiration to aspiring automotive apprentices and had proven the benefits of hard work and dedication.

"I wish him the best of luck in his career and congratulate Tim Ryan Panel and Paint for providing guidance and support throughout Luke's training," she said.

"Luke's trainer said he was a very motivated and talented student that was well respected by his teachers and peers

"He also said Luke's passion for the industry really stood out during his off-the-job training."

Ms Judge presented the Automotive Training Board of NSW with a $60,000 cheque to support ongoing training and development.

The funding is provided through the Office of Fair Trading's Motor Vehicle Industry Grants Program.

Chairman of the Automotive Training Board James McCall said significant changes within the automotive industry during the last decade had created demands on individuals across all automotive sectors.

"The winners of this year's awards have met these challenges directly and the Automotive Training Board would like to commend each individual winner for their commitment and passion," Mr McCall said.

The Automotive Training Board plays an important role in developing, improving and implementing systematic training for the automotive industry in NSW, as well as undertaking surveys and other research relating to the training needs of the industry.