Media Release

Release date: 3 November 2014

Celebration of industry training

52 graduates of industry training celebrated at the Mayor’s Taskforce For Job Industry Training Graduation last Thursday 30 October at Lawsonfield Theatre.

Mayor Meng Foon presented awards to graduates who have completed national qualifications through their employment in 2014.

“I am honoured to celebrate with trainees and apprentices who are successfully expanding their knowledge in their chosen field, more skilled people means more employment, better jobs and better expertise here in Tairawhiti.” Says Mayor Meng Foon.

Graduates were encouraged to support their employers and keep skills in their regions, support their families and give back to the community from guest speaker Mark Oldershaw, chief executive industry training federation.

Scott Braithwaite training advisor for midlands BCITO, travelled to Gisborne to attend the event and present to apprentices in building and construction.

“Qualified and skilled people ground the industry, from here trainees might go on to branch out or specialise, they might go on to own their own business and even employ others, the world’s their oyster now.”

The Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs programme works with industry training organisations (ITOs) to upskill people in work or education.

Seven ITO’s have been involved with 160 trainees in the region. “The Gisborne graduation is one of the most well supported events in the country.” Says Scott Braithwaite.

A highlight of the evening was a special award presented by the Mayor for services to community and industry, presented to Mark Stevens owner of Xmen Logging Ltd.

“Mark is amazing he puts everyone before himself,” says wife and business partner Rochelle Stevens, “we had to shut down two crews when the market slowed, but he kept them on so they had a job and paid them out of his own pocket.”

“This award is a memorial to his brother the late Douglas Stevens, and will be a legacy for future team members that show dedication, integrity and heart.”

Xmen Logging Ltd had 18 trainees graduating at the awards. “With 60 employees we are focussed on training an upskilling our team working with Competenz ITO.” Says Rochelle Stevens.

Graduate breaker out, Freedom Stevens says, “I’m grateful for what I’ve learnt from my foreman, Xmen are awesome to work for and have given me great opportunities.”

ENDS

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