Stepping out of your apprenticeship and into life as a tradie is a major career milestone. You’ve spent years learning your craft—and now the real work begins. But like any transition, this one comes with challenges.
Whether it’s about earning respect on job sites, figuring out your next step, or getting the qualifications to go solo, you’re not alone if things feel a bit rocky at first.
At Upskilled Training, we’ve helped thousands of apprentices and hands-on workers in Australia gain nationally recognised trade qualifications through RPL. Based on what we hear every day, here are the top 5 challenges apprentices face—and how you can overcome them.
Challenge 1: “I’m Still Treated Like an Apprentice”
What’s happening:
Even after completing their apprenticeship, many new tradies find they’re still seen as the “junior” on site. This can be frustrating, especially when you know you’re ready for more.
How to overcome it:
- Ask for small leadership responsibilities to prove your reliability
- Take initiative during site work or client jobs
- Get your formal trade qualification through RPL to back your skills with paperwork
- Let your work do the talking—quality and consistency build reputation fast
Challenge 2: “I Don’t Have a Qualification to Get Licensed or Go Out on My Own”
What’s happening:
You’ve completed your apprenticeship, but you’re still not formally certified—or you’re unsure what to do next.
Why it matters:
Without a nationally recognised qualification, you may not be eligible for licensing, can’t apply for insurance, or might miss out on higher-paying work.
How to overcome it:
- Use Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to get certified based on the work you’ve already done
- Contact Upskilled Training to assess your eligibility and start your RPL application
- Don’t wait—getting certified early opens doors to contracts, self-employment, and better rates
Challenge 3: “I’m Not Confident Dealing With Clients or Supervisors”
What’s happening:
As an apprentice, you had someone guiding you. As a tradie, you’re expected to communicate clearly and take the lead on your work.
How to overcome it:
- Practice explaining your work to friends or mentors—it builds confidence
- Learn common job site and client communication phrases
- Ask for feedback from your supervisors and take it seriously
- Consider short online courses in communication or project coordination
Challenge 4: “I Don’t Know How to Quote, Invoice or Run a Job”
What’s happening:
Many new tradies want to start contracting or take on side jobs—but quoting, invoicing, and managing small projects isn’t something you’re usually taught in an apprenticeship.
How to overcome it:
- Start small: use templates for quotes and invoices
- Learn about tax basics, job costing, and budgeting
- Connect with mentors or business owners in your trade
- Ask Upskilled Training about courses that support career transitions (like construction management or business basics for tradies)
Challenge 5: “I Feel a Bit Lost Without Structure”
What’s happening:
As an apprentice, you had a routine. When you become a tradie, you’re expected to self-manage. That shift in responsibility can feel overwhelming.
How to overcome it:
- Set weekly goals for work and skill development
- Keep a notebook or digital tracker of your tasks, contacts, and quotes
- Keep investing in yourself through training or mentorship
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions—being proactive shows leadership, not weakness
Bonus: How RPL Can Help You Fast-Track Your Career
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows you to use your hands-on experience to earn a formal, nationally recognised trade qualification—without returning to class.
With Upskilled Training, RPL is:
- Fast – Most qualifications are processed in weeks
- Affordable – No repeat training or tuition fees
- Flexible – You keep working while completing your application
- Backed by support – Our team helps you gather the right evidence
Apprentice-to-Tradie Don’ts
DON’T:
- Assume you’re fully certified just because your apprenticeship ended
- Wait until you “need it” to apply for your licence—start early
- Be afraid to ask for guidance—every top tradie started where you are
- Undervalue your work—get qualified and charge accordingly
