What does it take to become a master of a trade that's part art, part puzzle-solving, and all about security?
It's a skill set that goes well beyond simply cutting keys.
For Wagga locksmith Erin Hazell, it means preparing to compete against Australia's best to be named the national Apprentice Locksmith of the Year.
Ms Hazell, who works for Riverina Safes and Locks, is heading to Sydney for the demanding competition on September 9 and 10.
Her journey into locksmithing started in 2017, and she's part of a growing number of women entering the field.
"Being a regional locksmith means you have to be good at everything," she said.
"You can't really specialise like those in the city."
This need for a broad and versatile skill set makes it a dynamic and engaging career choice, moving beyond the simple task of cutting keys to include intricate tasks, Ms Hazell said.
The Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia competition will push contestants to their limits, with each apprentice judged on how they perform complex tasks under a strict time limit.
The contest will include picking and impression of locks, lock fitting, safe diagnosis, auto locks and master key work.
Master Locksmiths national president Martin Coote said locksmithing is an excellent career path for school leavers, especially women and the mature-aged, because it was less physically demanding than many other trades.
Ms Hazell's manager, Rhys Hofer, believes she's got what it takes to take out the top prize.
"She is excellent and has been with us for five years. This is just a great opportunity for her to showcase her skills," he said.
The winner will be announced at a gala dinner on Saturday, September 13, at Sydney Town Hall, with the grand prize being a trip to Europe to visit key and lock manufacturing factories in Germany and Italy.