Wood industries congratulate their graduates

MEDIA RELEASE

From: FITEC

2 pages

For immediate release

5 June 2008

Canterbury wood industries congratulate their 2007-2008 graduates

Nathan Hoglund is one of 37 graduates celebrating their achievements in the local wood industries on tonight in Christchurch.

They will be joined by more than 108 guests congratulating the trainees, who will graduate with an industry qualification. All of the trainees and Modern Apprentices have completed their study towards national certificates while working fulltime.

The event is sponsored by ACC and organised by FITEC (the industry training organisation for the forestry, wood manufacturing, furniture, biosecurity & credit management industries) to recognise the hard work, commitment and dedication to learning each individual has shown throughout the last year.

FITEC Chief Executive, Ian Boyd says, “Lifetime learning is important in all professions these days and the wood industries are no exception. Training builds confidence and adds significant value by improving industry productivity and individual capability.

“This year’s graduates are a great example of people who’ve chosen to increase their vocational knowledge and skills by committing to learning and becoming qualified.

“They are a wonderful mix of age and gender. We will enjoy sharing their regional celebration with them and wish them well in their careers and any future training they undertake.”

Don Ramsay, ACC Programme Manager for Forestry says that ACC is proud to support training a safer forestry industry.

“ACC is delighted to join with FITEC in supporting and celebrating training achievements across the wood industries. The improved safety culture is something the industry can be proud of.”

Mr Ramsay said an investment in training helps to retain staff by enhancing career opportunities and making workers feel more valued. Experienced staff who have worked together for a period of time are also much less likely to be injured.

“A commitment to safety training is always beneficial to both employers and employees, and is fully supported by ACC.” The celebrations are being held at the Crowne Plaza (Cnr of Kilmore St and Durham St, Christchurch) with colleagues and employers from 17 companies – including Cable Logging Ltd, Davies Furniture, Southern Pine Products, Westco Lagan Ltd and Brand Logging - cheering graduates on.

The Canterbury ceremony is the one of six regional graduations that have been held throughout New Zealand over the past month. Over 1000 trainees completed their national certificates in 2007.

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