Competition builds as apprentices are put to the test

Competition builds as apprentices are put to the test

Entries for the Registered Master Builders Carters 2016 Apprentice of the Year have now closed, with 164 apprentices from around New Zealand set to compete for the sought-after title and share of more than $100,000 worth of prizes.

Entries are particularly strong this year, with numbers up 13 percent from 2015. Registered Master Builders Chief Executive David Kelly is thrilled with the high number of entries this year, and says it reflects the high level of construction activity happening around the country.

“It’s brilliant to see so many apprentices step up to the challenge. These future Master Builders are our next industry leaders, this competition is all about nurturing talent to ensure a better built New Zealand,” he says.

“The competition provides them with the chance to prove themselves alongside their peers and the building and construction industry. We look forward to seeing the talent and passion amongst this year’s entrants, and wish them all the best as regional judging commences.”

BCITO Chief Executive Warwick Quinn says the organisation is proud to support an event that helps to promote the value of an apprenticeship in New Zealand.

“New Zealand’s construction industry is facing a significant shortage of apprentices right now. Apprentice of the Year is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the best of the industry and show other young people what a career in the trades has to offer,” he says.

“Apprentice of the Year is a great way for apprentices to make their mark in the building and construction industry. Taking part in the competition demonstrates that the apprentices are striving to be the best they can be. We are excited to see the high calibre of apprentices that put their skills to the test once again this year.”

Regional judging commences this week, and is made up of three stages including the initial entry submission, an interview with the judging panel, and an onsite visit where contestants will discuss their project.

The winning apprentice from each region will receive $2,000 to spend at Carters, a place at an Outward Bound course, and a range of products and tools.

The regional winners will then go on to compete at the Apprentice of the Year national competition in Auckland in November. They will be vying for the national title of Registered Master Builders Carters 2016 Apprentice of the Year.

Apprentices, employers and young people aspiring to be a part of the construction industry are encouraged to join the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/apprenticeoftheyear and for more information visit www.apprenticeoftheyear.co.nz.

The Registered Master Builders Apprentice of the Year competition is made possible thanks to principal sponsor Carters, the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO), and supporting sponsors the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and APL through their Altherm, First and Vantage brands.

ENDS

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