Expanding ITO takes over management of water qualifications

Media Release

11 June 2015

Expanding ITO takes over management of water qualifications

The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) has given the green light for a change in the way industry qualifications in the water infrastructure sector are managed.

Infrastructure Industry Training Organisation (ITO) Connexis is taking on responsibility for water-aligned qualifications and training from the agriculture-based Primary ITO.

There are approximately 500 trainees undertaking qualifications in water treatment, wastewater treatment and water reticulation trades.

Connexis was established in 2013 with the merger of electricity supply industry training and civil construction. Connexis CEO Helmut Modlik says the addition of water is a logical move as it provides for synergies with the other infrastructure qualification areas.

“The transfer will benefit existing Water Industry Training customers by giving them an enhanced level of service and increased support from the Connexis nationwide field team. We also believe that there are benefits for the wider infrastructure sector in that it enables most if not all training to be met by one organisation, rather than dealing with multiple ITOs.”

Connexis has been undertaking preparatory work with its new customers, prior to the final TEC approval, to ensure a smooth transition for both trainees and employers.

Mr Modlik says that across the infrastructure sector generally there is a shortage of skilled people and it is essential to focus on training and qualifications to fill the gap.

“Better qualifications obviously benefit individual workers and their employers and also addresses the government’s goal of providing infrastructure to enable a thriving New Zealand economy,” he says.

The moving of water-aligned qualifications to Connexis has been welcomed by the water sector. Adrian Watson, Executive General Manager - People, Process & Capability at City Care and Head of the Connexis Water Industry Group has been delighted with the professionalism that has been shown during the transfer process.

“It’s an exciting time and we are looking forward to working closely with Connexis to build sustainable education pathways for people working in and wishing to join the water sector,” Mr Watson says.

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