As the construction industry shows definite signs of growth, Kiwi carpentry apprentices are being encouraged to step up and show they have what it takes to be the industry’s future leaders.
Entries for the Registered Master Builders Carters 2014 Apprentice of the Year are now open, giving carpentry apprentices the opportunity to win their share of more than $100,000 in prizes, as well as the coveted title of 2014 Apprentice of the Year.
Registered Master Builders chief executive Warwick Quinn says the competition is an excellent opportunity for apprentices to stand out from their peers.
“Apprentice of the Year is a great way for apprentices to see how they measure up against others across the country. At a time when the industry is experiencing high demand, it’s valuable for apprentices to be able to differentiate themselves from their peers,” he says.
“The competition is all about recognising excellence in carpentry apprentices, and those who go the extra mile are held in high esteem by employers.”
2013 competition winer Bill Harkness says taking part in Apprentice of the Year was a massive learning curve, and it showed him where he stood among others in the industry.
“Apprentice of the Year is a huge name to have on your back, and it stands for a lot. The recognition I’m getting from the competition is really setting me up for the rest of my career. My name is out there now, and that, in itself, is invaluable,” Bill says.
Principal sponsor Carters will be supporting the competition for the 10th year running, and chief executive Paul Bull says it’s a great way of giving back to the industry.
“We’re really proud to be involved with Apprentice of the Year and recognise the effort that employers put in to training apprentices — their input is a real investment in the future of the industry,” he says.
“The competition is also an excellent opportunity for entrants to meet other apprentices and industry contacts across the country, keeping the industry thriving.”
Carpentry apprentices can enter online at www.apprenticeoftheyear.co.nz, with entries closing on Thursday, June 12.
Apprentices, employers and young people aspiring to be a part of the construction industry are also encouraged to join the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/apprenticeoftheyear.
The Apprentice of the Year competition is made possible thanks to principal sponsor Carters, the Registered Master Builders Association, the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO), and supporting sponsor the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).
