The top apprentices from each region throughout New Zealand have been announced for the 2022 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year.
The Apprentice of the Year competition recognises excellence among carpentry apprentices and raises awareness of career opportunities in the construction industry. The competition tests future sector leaders’ project management, business, presentation and practical skills.
For the regional competition, each apprentice had to initially submit a building project. They then took part in a two-hour practical challenge where they were tasked with building a sawhorse.
The top 10 from each region then progressed to the interview stage with a judging panel and an onsite visit to discuss their project. The eight top apprentices will now go on to compete in the national competition in November.
This includes a 45-minute interview with the national judging panel and an additional six-hour practical skills test, followed by the National Awards Dinner where the winner will be announced.
Regional winners, and judges’ comments:
Paulo Oliveira
Region: Northern
Training provider: BCITO
Employer: TP Builders
“Despite only arriving in New Zealand from Brazil four years ago, Paulo’s submission was most impressive.
“Sound technical knowledge was displayed throughout, which was enhanced by Paulo’s flowing and professional style of writing.
Paulo watched Thomas O’Brien compete two years ago — and has been working on his application since then. This came across in Paulo’s site visit presentation, which showcased his detailed project knowledge, passion, confidence, and shining enthusiasm.”
Dane Schnell
Region: Auckland
Training provider: BCITO
Employer: Coastal Concepts
“Dane is a great all-rounder and is a clear and concise thinker. His submission was detailed and professional, which was further reinforced with well-constructed responses to the interview questions. “Dane had a great reference from the client, and displayed a deep understanding of the finer details.
“The pride that Dane takes in his own work was also mentioned, underscoring his great attitude and why he is running jobs. He will be a great asset to the industry.”
Vishal Toi Toi
Region: Bay of Plenty/Central Plateau
Training provider: BCITO
Employer: 90 Degrees Construction
“Vishal’s passion and enthusiasm for his job really shone through. He demonstrated a positive attitude and willingness to learn, enabling him to acquire the fundamental skills required to be a good builder.
“He has developed great self-management skills and is able to think critically to achieve his goals. Co-running his site has given Vishal the valuable opportunity of managing a build from start to finish, teaching him the skills of planning, people, and time management.”
Chris Foy
Region: Waikato
Training provider: BCITO
Employer: Urban Homes
“Chris is an impressive, keen and organised apprentice with a maturity beyond his years.
“He showed great awareness of health and safety. Chris has a very good skill set and fantastic tool technique, which enabled him to work at a steady but strong rate during the practical challenge.
“Chris’ submission impressed the judges. It was well detailed, and his involvement in the project was clearly described — and this came through during the site visit.
Ryan Mancer
Region: Central North Island/East Coast Hawke’s Bay
Training provider: BCITO
Employer: Shane Stone Builders
“Ryan is a very impressive apprentice who has a great skill set, and his workmanship is at the level of a qualified carpenter.
“His site visit and interview were excellent, and he has done an amazing job on his classroom conversion. Ryan demonstrated to the judges that he knew the project inside out, from health and safety to dealing with his client and subbies.
“He will go a long way in his building career, and is going to be a great asset to Shane Stone and Whanganui building in general.”
Chris Reedy
Region: Lower North Island
Training provider: BCITO
Employer: Barber Construction
“It was clear that Christopher had put a lot of effort in to ensure he was well versed on the required interview topics. His passion for the industry really shone through, particularly his extensive building knowledge.
“It is obvious that Christopher keeps up to date with industry changes, and is now running his own jobs. He will go a long away in the construction industry.”
Jeremy Pearce
Region: Upper South Island
Training provider: BCITO
Employer: Scott Construction
“Jeremy is an apprentice who is well regarded by his peers. He showed very good knowledge of his worksite and health and safety, understanding all facets of the build. Jeremy demonstrated professionalism and good communication skills during his interview.
“He was able to clearly explain his plans, materials, and the legislative requirements, and if he didn’t know the answer, he knew where to find the information.”
Leon Hingston
Region: Central South Island & Southern
Training provider: BCITO
Employer: Clive Barrington Construction
“Leon is an excellent example of a mature and competent apprentice. He has been well trained by his employer and is naturally talented, with skills and capabilities that will serve him well in the future.
“As a recently qualified trade carpenter, Leon’s attitude, leadership qualities, and practical knowledge set him apart. Leon’s calm demeanour is another asset, allowing him to problem solve on the spot and consistently deliver strong results.”
For more information visit: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/RMBA/News/AOY/2022/Top_Building_Apprentices_Have_Been_Announced.aspx
