Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) was recognised this week for their support of the Defence Force Territorial Services. At an inaugural event held at parliament by the Territorial Forces Employers Support Council, WelTec was awarded State Sector Employer of the Year in recognition of support to tutor and Navy Reservist, Barry Dulieu.

The Territorial Forces include the Territorial Army, New Zealand Naval Volunteer Reserves and Territorial Air Force. There are currently over 2000 New Zealanders serving in the part-time forces and they are an integral component in peacekeeping missions throughout the world.

The Territorial Forces Employer Support Council was launched in October 2007 by Defence Minister Phil Goff, to promote the Territorial Forces to employers. The council consists of representatives from Government departments, employers groups, unions, and the tertiary education sector.

WelTec was one of four organisations recognised for their support of the Territorial Forces.

Head of Centre for Trade and Technology, Alan Peck accepted the award from Hon Annette King on behalf of WelTec. “I am delighted to accept this award. The reserve and territorial forces play an extremely important role in the New Zealand Defence Force. Employees who are part of the territorial forces benefit greatly from their service and show commitment, leadership and motivation, skills that all employers seek.”

“I have heard a number of testimonies from employers who had staff deploy in the navy and with the army in places like the Persian Gulf, Timor and the Solomons. The testimonies were glowing in their praise for how much belonging to the reserves had contributed to the professionalism and performance of their employees.”

John Allen, Chairman for the Territorial Forces Employers Support Council and CEO of New Zealand Post says “the NZDF is making a difference in hot spots all around the world and we know that the Regular Force is very strongly supported by the Territorial Forces. Employers can only gain from encouraging their employee’s involvement in the Territorial Forces. In return for their support they get highly motivated and energised employees that are confident team players with problem solving and effective communication skills.

“I want employers to understand that the leadership, team wok and technical skills that are being given in the Defence Force are world class. I want them to understand that if you have employees who are in the Territorial Forces then you are going to be more successful”

ENDS

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