Mr Simon, a school-based apprentice with Bradfordville engineering firm K&H Ainsworth Engineering, was named the 2015 Goulburn Australia Business Excellence Apprentice of the Year, and in the twelve months since has gained more and more experience.

Unfortunately Mr Simon was unwell and could not attend the awards night, but he was presented with the award by Goulburn Chamber of Commerce secretary Mark Bradbury a short time later.

"I didn't really expect to receive the award, but I was really happy when I was presented with it," he said.

Mr Simon's boss Ken Ainsworth praised his hard working effort.

"Jared is a good kid and is doing really well here with us" he said.

"His knowledge of the industry has improved out of sight, and he has accepted the fact that not only can engineers do things the modern way with machines and computers, but he has also been able to learn the traditional methods and work with hand tools, too."

Mr Simon is still working one day a week (Thursday) with the firm, and is continuing his studies at Wollongong TAFE.

Both he and Mr Ainsworth believe that the Goulburn Chamber of Commerce is a great supporter of both small and large businesses around the city.

"It is great for smaller businesses because it gives them the recognition they deserve," Mr Ainsworth said.

Local businesses have until the end of today to nominate for the 2016 Business Awards.

The annual awards will culminate in a gala dinner at the Mercure Hotel on Saturday August 6.

There are 10 categories; eight are set by the NSW Chamber of Commerce, and the winners in those go on to the state finals. The other two categories are set locally, for best customer service and best trainee/apprentice.

The categories are:

Excellence in Business Ethics;

Young Entrepreneur;

Excellence in Sustainability;

Excellence in Business (employing 20-plus);

Excellence in Customer Service;

Excellence in Export; Excellence in Innovation;

Excellence in Small Business (under 20 employees);

Employer of the Year; and Trainee/Apprentice of the Year.

The Awards gala dinner will be a three course meal and all finalists and winners will be announced on the night.

Nominations can be made by contacting the Chamber office on 0477 258 005 or online at awards.nswbc.com.au/