Hunting and Pest Control programme popular

NorthTec’s Professional Hunting and Pest Control programme attracts South Island students

NorthTec student Russell Green was looking online for a pest control qualification that would lead to work wherever his partner’s career in forestry took them when he came across NorthTec’s Certificate in Professional Hunting and Pest Control.

His partner had a career opportunity as a Log Production Coordinator with a forest owner in the Far North so Russell decided to embark on a qualification at NorthTec.

“I’m really keen on hunting and went out as often as possible with a friend that I met at university. The NorthTec programme is the first thing I’ve done since leaving high school where I’ve been able to apply myself to the extent that I am now, mainly because I have a genuine interest in the programme.”

Russell said that the NorthTec’s programme offers a good balance between studying in the classroom and getting out into the field. “My previous university studies were a good preparation for the academic part of the programme, in terms of the research and assessment aspects. Getting out into the field and gaining experience alongside people who are working in the pest control industry is really valuable. I’ve had some helpful advice about where to go and what to do after the course.”

NorthTec tutor Clint McGee has been a great role model. “I’ve never had a teacher that I’ve gotten on with as well as Clint. He creates a great atmosphere within the group.”

Russell is now considering putting together his own company with other graduates from the course and trying and get contract work. He’s also considering further study with NorthTec and is interested in studying for a Diploma in Conservation and Environmental Management.

In the meantime Russell’s providing a compelling example for other students from the south to follow. “One of my mates from Christchurch is coming up to do the next course. I’d really recommend it to anyone from the South Island.”

NorthTec is the Tai Tokerau (Northland) region's largest provider of tertiary education, with campuses and learning centres in Whangarei, Kerikeri, Rāwene, Dargaville, Kaikohe and Kaitaia. NorthTec also has over 60 community-based delivery points from Coatesville in rural Rodney to Ngataki in the Far North.

ENDS