Quick Answer
Mitch Carr and Keagan Neilsen from Coldwell Drilling were named runner-ups in the 2026 Apprentice of the Year awards. Both are drilling apprentices building careers in the Bowen Basin, recognised for their technical skill, safety leadership and commitment to mentoring younger crew members.
In an industry where precision, reliability, and teamwork are everything, Coldwell Drilling continues to set the standard — not just through the work they deliver, but through the people they invest in.
As proud Runner-Ups in the Bowen Basin Apprentice of the Year Award, apprentices Mitch Carr and Keagan Neilsen represent the next generation of skilled tradespeople shaping the future of drilling.
A True Family Business at Its Core
Coldwell Drilling isn't just a company — it's a family. With over 48 years of dedication, Gayle Coldwell has been at the heart of the business, helping build it into what it is today.
Now, the next generation is stepping forward, with her son Brendan Coldwell taking on a larger leadership role, and daughter Renee Coldwell joining the team.
It's not uncommon to see siblings, parents, and in-laws working side by side — and even former team members returning. That kind of loyalty doesn't happen by accident. It's built through culture, respect, and a genuine commitment to people.
Investing in Multi-Skilled Apprentices
One of the standout things about Coldwell Drilling is how they approach training. Rather than limiting apprentices to a single pathway, they actively encourage dual trades — for example, becoming both a boilermaker and a diesel fitter — while undertaking drilling certifications as well.
This approach creates well-rounded operators who understand the full lifecycle of a drilling operation — from fabrication and maintenance through to execution on site. It's a smarter, more resilient way to build a workforce — and one that sets their apprentices apart.
Keagan Neilsen (left) and Mitch Carr (right) — Coldwell Drilling Runner-Ups for the 2026 Bowen Basin Apprentice of the Year.
Meet the Runner-Ups
Mitch Carr
Mitch joined Coldwell Drilling just last year and is currently completing his first trade as a boilermaker.
Already, he's embraced the hands-on learning environment and the variety that comes with working across different projects and challenges. For Mitch, no two days look the same — and that's exactly what keeps the role exciting.
Keagan Neilsen
Keagan is taking his skills even further. Already a qualified boilermaker, he is now completing his second trade as a diesel fitter, fast tracked to finish by the end of the year.
His journey reflects Coldwell's commitment to developing multi-skilled tradespeople who can support every stage of the operation.
A Culture That Keeps People
When asked what it's like to work at Coldwell Drilling, both apprentices shared a simple but powerful sentiment:
It's a great group of people. There's no drama, and there's always variety in the work.
That combination — strong team culture and diverse, hands-on experience — is what keeps people engaged, motivated, and continuously improving.
Advice for Future Apprentices
For those considering a career in the trades, Mitch and Keagan's advice is refreshingly straightforward:
- Show up
- Try your best
- Ask questions
- Lean on your team
Because in a workplace like Coldwell, you're never expected to figure it out alone.
Why Drilling — and People — Matter
As Gayle puts it:
Drilling is the foundation of the mining process. Without accurate, well-executed drill holes, blasting can't occur — and without blasting, there's no production. That's why getting the first step right is absolutely critical.
But success isn't just about the equipment. It's about the people behind it.
That's why Coldwell Drilling continues to invest in its workforce — supporting continuous learning, encouraging multi-trade development, and providing the hands-on experience needed for individuals to grow and perform at their best.
Celebrating the Next Generation
Being named Runner-Ups in the Bowen Basin Apprentice of the Year Award is no small achievement.
For Mitch and Keagan, it's recognition of their hard work, dedication, and willingness to learn. For Coldwell Drilling, it's proof that investing in people isn't just the right thing to do — it's what drives long-term success.
And for the Bowen Basin, it's a reminder that the future of the industry is in capable hands.
