Due to restrictions and social distancing measures, Training Services announced the winners in a Facebook live event.

Reece, who completed his traineeship in January, was employed by Skillset and hosted by Yancoal Moolarben Coal Operations for the duration of his traineeship in Certificate III in Surface Mining - Surface Extraction Operations with Train365.

Moolarben Coal Operations HR Manager, Grant Arnold praised Reece for this workmanship.

"Reece is an active member in the community who managed to actively volunteer throughout his traineeship. This year's bushfire emergency was a very demanding time for RFS volunteers, but Reece managed to balance his commitments while staying on top of his studies and completing all work tasks in an efficient manner", Mr Arnold said.

Reece acknowledged the support of Skillset, Moolarben Coal Operations and Train365 in helping him to both get a start in his career.

"Winning the Trainee of the Year award truly means a great deal. This is a testament to everybody who helped me get this far - Skillset, Train365, Moolarben Coal Operations, Rylstone Show Committee, NSW Rural Fire Service and of course, my family. A huge thank you to everybody," he said.

Skillset CEO Craig Randazzo congratulated Reece for the achievement.

"This is a wonderful achievement for Reece to be awarded the Western NSW Training Awards Trainee of the Year. This award recognises his hard work and determination as a trainee. Reece is a true ambassador for Vocational Education and Training and a great mentor for fellow trainees to look up to."

Reece will now proceed to the next stage of interviews for the NSW Training Awards, which will take place in Sydney later this year.