Bay of Plenty Carpentry Apprentice of the Year

Media Release
7 October 2005

2005 Bay of Plenty Region Carpentry Apprentice of the Year announced

Samuel Garrity, 22, of Greerton, Tauranga has won the inaugural Registered Master Builders Carters 2005 Apprentice of the Year competition for the Bay of Plenty Region.

Announced last night at a function in Tauranga, Samuel was presented with his award by Steve Langton, Branch Manager of principal sponsor Carters; and Graham Olds, Acting CEO of the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO).

The event was well attended and guests present included Bob Clarkson, MP for Tauranga; Stuart Crosby, Tauranga Mayor; Graeme Weld, Taupo Mayor, Clayton Stent; Western BOP Mayor; Graeme Hanlen, Deputy Mayor from Whakatane. The competition aims to foster and encourage the training and development of young carpentry apprentices.

Entrants are judged on their practical skills, knowledge of the building sector and materials and the way they relate to people. Endorsement from their employer and education institution is also taken into account. Garrity, a carpentry apprentice for Edinbridge Resources in Tauranga, said he was thrilled to win the prestigious competition.

Glen Hossack, Carters representative on the judging panel, said: “Samuel is the complete package. He combines an incredibly strong work ethic, diverse skill set and enthusiasm with a raw, natural talent. His motivation to succeed inspires those around him.”

Pieter Burghout, Chief Executive of Registered Master Builders said the Federation was committed to industry training and the Apprentice of the Year awards helped it to encourage young people into the sector.

“The construction industry is an excellent career choice and rewarding successful apprentices is a great way to nurture and grow the future of the sector. These awards provide an incentive for trainees and demonstrate the kind of personal and trade skills we are looking for in young people coming through.”

Katrina Osborn, spokesperson from principal sponsor Carters agrees, “Apprentices are the key to the construction sector’s future. Carters want to support young tradespeople as they gain the skills and experience they need to build successful careers.”

Garrity receives an Outward Bound Leadership course to the value of $3,500 and a study grant of $2,500 on winning the competition.

Highly Commended awards were presented to Troy Grimwood, 19, Taupo and Cory Harwood, 20, Whangamata. Both received leather jackets from Carters.

The Registered Master Builders Carters 2005 Apprentice of the Year is supported by principal sponsor Carters; and supporting sponsor the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO).

For more information on the competition, contact your local Carters stores, BCITO or registered master builder, or visit www.masterbuilder.org.nz.

ENDS

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