BCITO connecting employers and career seekers

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As demand for skilled construction workers throughout the country is becoming evident, the BCITO is connecting employers with eager career seekers.

The BCITO has a dedicated team tasked with matching employers who have registered their need for apprentices with those keen to start a career in the construction industry.

Many are starting their building apprenticeships with the BCITO direct from school.

BCITO chief executive Ruma Karaitiana says builders throughout New Zealand are screaming out for good apprentices, particularly in Auckland and Christchurch.

“Builders need all the talent they can get right now, so it’s the best time ever for career seekers to start an apprenticeship in this bustling industry,” Mr Karaitiana says.

“The BCITO can facilitate this by putting career seekers in contact with builders and other construction-related employers — it’s a win-win. We’re placing people directly from school, as well as those who have done pre-trade training or are seeking a career change,” he says.

The BCITO signed up almost 6000 new apprentices across all trades in 2014, and demand for at least another 3000 is evident.

“There are excellent career prospects in the building and construction industry for dedicated people who want to get ahead,” Mr Karaitiana says.
Apprentice builder Steven Walker, from the North Shore in Auckland, found work with the help of the BCITO.

Having had experience previously as a concrete labourer, Steven said he got in touch with the BCITO to undertake an apprenticeship so he could become formally qualified in a trade, as well as to learn on the job.

“I can learn straight from my boss, and I’m getting to grips with exactly how he likes things done,” Steven says.

Steven filled out a work profile on the BCITO’s web site. He registered his details in late September 2014 and secured employment, and began his apprenticeship in January 2015.

“All good things take time, and although a couple of months passed before the BCITO was able to match me with a suitable employer, the fit is perfect. The job and the training I’m getting are well worth waiting for.

“The BCITO put me in touch with Probuilt Commercial Ltd. I had a chat with the boss and then went for an interview. A short time after that I had started work,” he says.

Steven’s now learning on the job, and is currently working on a large commercial renovation project in Te Atatu South.

Career seekers interested in an apprenticeship can register their interest at

www.bcito.org.nz/lookingforwork, or get in contact on Facebook.

Employers looking for apprentices can call the BCITO on 0800 422 486.

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