Shaping tradespeople from the ground up
2026-04-28
Carpentry teachers at The Gordon bring real‑world experience, passion and pride into every classroom and workshop.
None more so than Steve O’Keeffe, who was recently recognised by the Master Builders Victoria Association, South West Region, as Trainer of the Year.
Before teaching, Steve spent more than a decade working as a concreter before transitioning into carpentry. That varied background has given him a deep understanding of construction from the ground up and has made him a popular and highly respected teacher among apprentices.
Carpentry and Construction teacher, Steve O'Keeffe.
I just love working outside. I’ve tried office work and truck driving, but there is something about being outdoors with your mates. You support each other on tough days, but you can also turn the music up and get the work done.
That culture of teamwork and accountability reflects the realities of the industry, where precision matters.
In our industry especially when conducting fix‑outs in houses, every half a millimetre counts, which is a mindset I work hard to instil in apprentices.
Steve’s recognition has been widely celebrated internally. Carpentry and Building Program Lead Clayton Whitfield described him as a standout educator, praising his ability to engage students and lift standards in the classroom.
“Steve’s dedication means students aren’t just showing up, they’re genuinely engaged in their learning, and we’re lucky to have him on our team,” Clayton said.
The modern carpentry classroom at The Gordon brings together a mix of school leavers and people retraining later in life, each with different skill sets and experiences. Adapting his teaching style to suit that diversity is something Steve takes real pride in.
“I enjoy the challenge of connecting with apprentices and adjusting my approach,” he said.
“What works for a 16‑year‑old school leaver won’t necessarily work for a mature‑age apprentice. Being able to connect with everyone is critical to success in the classroom.”
At The Gordon, carpentry training reflects real industry conditions. Unlike many worksites where materials arrive pre‑cut, apprentices work directly with raw materials, measuring, cutting and installing themselves. This approach builds precision from day one, with a strong focus on sustainability and producing high‑quality tradespeople for the region.
“It’s about understanding the full process,” Steve said.
“Those skills make all the difference when apprentices step onto a job site.”
Steve’s achievement will be celebrated alongside three apprentices at the Master Builders Victoria State Awards Gala at Marvel Stadium in May, highlighting The Gordon’s strength in developing the next generation of tradespeople.
If you love working with your hands to build and create, then a career in building trades is for you!
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