Resilience after a life-changing accident

She was involved in a horrific car accident and suffered significant injuries that nearly claimed her life.  

In recognition of her incredible perseverance and resilience, Maddison was one of five finalists in the Apprenticeship Employment Network, Overcoming Adversity Award this month. While she did not win the award, it was a recognition of her courage and determination.  

CFA Aerial Technician and Maddison’s supervisor at work, Peter Tippet said the accident had not slowed Maddison down as she came back and excelled at everything she’s done. 

“She’s got a great work ethic and is like a sponge, just soaking up all the information you give her,” Peter said. 

”With what she went through to be a finalist is like she’s won it anyway.”  

Maddison’s affiliation for cars began at an early age – she was born into a family of car enthusiasts. 

“We go to car shows quite a lot. Dad loves his old Holdens,” said Maddison.  

“We also go four-wheel-driving. When you’re in the middle of the bush and you’ve got a problem, you have to find a way to fix it. 

“I worked seven days of my apprenticeship and was starting to get to know everyone and then had my accident and had to have three months off work.  

Maddison spent two weeks in the Intensive Care Unit as a result of her horrific injuries. From there she fought through weeks of physio before returning to work three months later.  

“I did have lots of enthusiasm from my coworkers that I could continue on in the job and do it after the accident.” Maddison said.  

“My favorite part of working at CFA is no day is the same. 

“I did valve clearances on one of the trucks pretty early on, which most people don’t really get that opportunity.  

“A few weeks later I went to trade school and the topic was valve clearances and I was the only one that knew how to do it. It was really good to show and teach everybody else.  

Maddison’s advice to other woman that aspire to be a DMO is give it a go.