MPTT helps Māori and Pasifika become leaders in the trades industry. As well as paying your course fees, we’ll give you one-on-one mentoring to grow your career, and help you find work in your chosen trade.
If you’re Māori or Pasifika and aged 16-40, you could qualify for our scholarships. Let us know you’re interested by filling out this form, and we’ll be in touch.
Why hire a labourer when you can hire an apprentice? That’s the opinion of Auckland business owner Pat Coll, who’s trained about 180 electrical apprentices since starting Coll Electrical back in 1985.
A win-win
Pat says apprenticeships are a win-win, offering big benefits to both aspiring tradies and employers.
“Taking on apprentices is the right thing to do. It’s better for them, and it’s better for us,” he says.
“You’re giving workers an opportunity to up-skill, which means they can get paid more. A lot of guys who get an apprenticeship find out they’re quite good at it and they get better and better. You see guys grow, and it’s a neat feeling actually”.
“But it’s also good for us. Probably about 80% of our staff are people we’ve trained. A lot of them have gone overseas to travel, and they come back and become part of the management team. Most of our guys have been trained under us. It creates a bit of loyalty”.
Pat says more employers should consider taking on apprentices, rather than just hiring labourers.
“Why have a labourer when you can have an apprentice who’s just going to get better and better?
“To be honest, because of the size we are, it’s easy to train apprentices. It’s nothing major – no more than if we were taking on a labourer, no more than another staff member.”
Pat isn’t alone in finding apprenticeships valuable for business. Recent research by BCITO found for every $1 spent on training, a business will benefit by an average of $4.70 in increased profit for up to 10 years.
Wired for success
Among Coll Electrical’s 65 staff is 21-year-old Ioane McNiell-Temese, who began his apprenticeship in August this year.
Ioane was doing a Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory (Level 3) at Manukau Institute of Technology when the opportunity arose to join the workforce.
“Pat gave me a call after seeing a profile that Travis (an MPTT navigator) made of me. He asked me to come in just for a chat, and that chat turned out to be the interview. That’s how I got the job – easy as that.”
Ioane, who is half Samoan and being supported by MPTT Auckland, could see the advantage of landing an apprenticeship.
“I thought it was really important to get qualified. It’s something I’ll have behind me for the rest of my life. What’s three years of training compared to a life of just labouring?
“Maybe in the future I can go to Australia or even start my own business – it opens up more doors than just being a labourer or driving a digger.”
And Ioane is quick to encourage other trainees to take the same path, if they get the chance.
“Get your apprenticeship as soon as you can. If you think you’re ready, even a little bit ready, you’re ready. Go out and do it – it’s much better than sitting in a classroom everyday; you’re making money while you study.”
Hands-on skills
Having previously worked as a chef, Ioane’s also loving the chance to work in a more physical job. “I’m really enjoying the work. It’s a bit different to the old cooking job! It’s more physical than I thought. I’m doing civil work at the moment, so I’ve been putting up street poles for the past month or so. The spade has been my friend.”
As part of his apprenticeship, Ioane will complete his Level 3 and Level 4 while he works. He’s doing his apprenticeship through Skills, and will spend one day in a classroom every fortnight – while still being paid. Pat says he doesn’t mind losing his apprentices when they go off-site to study.
“Skills is very good. They come in and sign the apprentices up, they assign them to which tech they’re going, and we just keep an eye on it. I have apprentices who I don’t have any issues with right through their apprenticeship. They go to tech, we sign off their book, they do their job, we pay them. It’s great – couldn’t be better.”
Looking for an apprentice you can trust? Ask our navigators about finding the right employee who can add value to your business.
A team of volunteers recently travelled to Samoa to help build and improve homes, as part of a Habitat for Humanity project from August 26 to September 2. Included in the team were Tony Laulu, Pacific advisor from Skills, along with MPTT trainees from Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) Paea Vakalahi and Andrew Leota.
Supported by MIT and Skills as well as MPTT, they helped with work including renovations, extensions and cyclone strengthening of existing homes, and building brand new homes. Find out more about the work they did and what they learned about Samoa in Tony’s account of their trip. Looking fresh and clean at the start of work
Hot and humid
Habitat for Humanity New Zealand have a project in Samoa where volunteers are to assist in building and improving homes. The work includes cyclone strengthening existing homes, renovations of homes, extension of homes or building brand new homes.
Paea, Andrew and I were part of a wider group that went up on 26 August until 2nd September. Eight other volunteers from around NZ who were also part of the habitat build joined us. We arrived to a hot humid Samoa and we were treated with top-notch hospitality from the ADRA team who partner with Habitat for Humanity. We used the first weekend to acclimatize and get familiar with our surroundings, our team and understanding our first working week.
Stuck in
The first week we were able to get stuck in with working with the local builders in renovating a home in Lalovaea. It was hot and humid but with a lot of water and determination, we made it through each day. As the week went on the builders became more trusting of us to do more specific projects such as strapping, knocking out windows, fitting new ones, also measuring, and cutting wood. As we finished the first homes and the first week was coming to a close there was a huge sense of achievement from us but also to see the change of the home from beginning to the end was amazing.
We were able to see a side of Samoa not many tourists get to see. The day to day living of a normal Samoan family, their hospitality, the children’s knowledge of service were all experience’s Paea, Andrew and I learnt from. We were all able to have a good weekend with the group travelling to Savaii! You have not been to Samoa if you have not been to Savaii.
Great hospitality and hard but rewarding work
Honing skills
The second week was much of the same but the builds were in new locations. Andrew in this week was able to help more with the wiring of houses and advising families on correct electrical practices. There was an obvious need for his knowledge and expertise and the families we visited all were thankful for his help. He was able to show love and understanding when communicating with the local families and took his time explaining what he knows about certain important electrical procedures. He was very influential amongst the builders and families sharing his knowledge with in the electrical space.
Paea, as student in carpentry was able to get a lot more involved with the tools, cutting and measuring boards for a wall to a house. She was able to work alone in putting up a wall and frame for one of the houses. She really came out of her shell and was able to work collaboratively with the local builders to get things done quicker. She was having trouble with cutting a certain piece of wood one time, did not hesitate to ask for assistance, and quickly learnt to do it correctly. Paea was a great asset for the team.
“Going over to Samoa has changed me, because life isn’t always about money. While I was in Samoa I have learnt so many different things I haven’t learnt and seeing how Samoans work as hard as they do I have realized that life ain’t easy, it’s something that you can’t throw away, it’s a blessing. Being in Samoa has helped me see what I can do for myself and for my future. You just need to accept what you have because at the end of the day you will know that you have regret about what you have done”. Paea Vakalahi
(Left) Andrew and Paea sharing their skills. (Right) A hardworking group
Valuable life lessons
This trip for Andrew, Paea and myself all gave us our own valuable lessons. Not too much about the technical aspects of the trades but more so perspective on life, career and family. The whole habitat for humanity team came together as strangers but left as family. We are already planning a reunion!
Thank you MPTT and Skills for giving us an opportunity to give back to the Samoan people. We could not have done it without your support, belief and trust. May God bless Samoa and all those who endeavor to help build families and communities, one home at a time.
Tony Laulu
Pacific Advisor, The Skills Organisation
Your employer’s first impression of you isn’t usually face-to-face – they’ll read your job application first. So if your CV isn’t up to scratch, you’re much less likely to score an interview.
But how do you write a CV, what is a cover letter, and what if you don’t have any work experience in your trade yet? This guide will help you nail that first impression, and show you where to get help if you need it.
Why write a CV?
Your CV, also called a resume, is your first step towards a new job, says Kevin Everett from Building Recruitment.
Kevin Everett
“This is the most important part of the whole process because it’s your chance to make a great first impression. Employers and recruiters will use these documents to determine whether or not they’ll take you further in the process or not.”
Reasons your CV is important:
It gives the employer an idea of what you’ve done so far.
It shows you have the initiative to write your CV and apply for the job.
A tidy, well-written CV shows respect for the employer and yourself.
Match your CV to the job
Don’t just write one CV and send it to all potential employers. You should tailor your CV to fit the particular job you’re applying for, says Kevin.
“If you’re applying for a position where the most important part of the role is erecting frame and truss, you should focus on highlighting your previous frame and truss experience.
“You want the employer to see your CV and think you’d be a perfect fit for the role.”
To get it right, Kevin says it’s important to read the job ad so you can focus on the skills and traits they’re looking for. You can also do research like visiting the company’s website, so you understand more about where you’ll be working.
“Find out as much information about the position and the company as you can.”
While you want to give your potential boss all the relevant information, you don’t need to include everything you’ve ever done – like the certificate for ‘best team player’ that you got in primary school.
“The idea behind a resume is not simply to record your entire life story, but to market the experience and skills you have in a way that matches you with the position you are applying for,” says Kevin.
How to write your CV
Make sure you include this information in your CV, says Kevin.
Your name and contact details. Include your phone number and a work-appropriate email address (not terminator99@mail.com) – and in case you miss the employer’s call, make sure your voicemail message is professional and includes your name.
Personal statement. This is a short paragraph to introduce yourself, your qualities and ethics and what you would bring to the company if hired. E.g. ‘An enthusiastic, hard-working construction trainee experienced in roofing, timber work and erecting frames and trusses.’
A snapshot of your work history including the company and your job title. Always put the dates you worked in each role and include the months, not just years; writing ‘2015-2016’ could mean you worked there for a year, or you could have just been there for a few months. For each place you’ve worked, include detail about your job responsibilities and achievements.
DON’T
Hammerhand
Responsibilities:
Helped build residential houses
General labouring
Required to meet H&S requirements
DO
ABC Contracting, Jan 2016 – Dec 2017
Position: Hammerhand
Responsibilities:
Erecting frames and trusses
Attending toolbox meetings
Measuring and cutting materials
Wrapping building
Ensuring site is clear and safe at all times
Setting up laser level
Using nail guns, compound saws, power drills and skill saws
Ensuring all framing bottom plates were connected to floor slab as per NZS3604
Reading of plans
Using laser levels
Achievements:
Regular positive feedback from my employer regarding my work standard and ethics
Always turned up on time and never had to fix errors
Learned new skills such as NZS3604, using power tools and laser level
In nearly two years I have never had an injury
What tools you own and what tools you have experience using.
A list of your licences, training, education and qualifications (e.g. full drivers licence, Site Safe).
Rather than listing referees on your CV, write ‘References available on request’, says Kevin. “Don’t include your referee’s details.” Then, when your future boss gets in touch to ask for your references, you can give your referees a heads-up before the employer calls them to make sure they’re not caught off-guard.
Include your personal interests, and relate them to the job. For example, playing rugby helps show you’re a team player who is physically fit and enjoys being outdoors.
What if I have no experience yet?
If you’re applying for your first trades job, you probably won’t have a whole lot of experience to include.
That’s okay – you can list projects you’ve worked on during your course as well as experience that shows you’d make a good employee.
Unitec relationship manager Rangi Williams says experience isn’t just about your trades skills – it’s about demonstrating you’re ready for work.
“Some employers might prefer to train you up their way and won’t require trades experience. But they do want you to have some experience with getting to work on time, being reliable, driving a vehicle, being drug-free, and showing you have a good attitude.”
MIT relationship manager Naomi Tito adds that many people underestimate the value of the skills they do have.
“Many trainees don’t realise the importance and relevance of ‘soft skills’. For example, working with youth shows leadership skills, while community engagement demonstrates the ability to contribute and be part of the wider community.”
What if I don’t have any referees?
If you haven’t had a job before or can’t ask your old boss to vouch for you, what can you do?
First, try asking a tutor from your course if they’d be happy to be your referee. They’ll have seen you learn skills in your trade, as well as demonstrate soft skills like showing up to class on time.
You can also ask people who know your character, even if they don’t know anything about your trade. This could be your rugby coach, the pastor at your church or a friend of your whānau.
Remember, always ask people first before passing their details on to your future boss. If the employer gives your referee a call, it’s better if they’ve had a bit of time to think about the nice things they want to say about you.
What is a cover letter and how do I write one?
A cover letter is a letter from you to your potential employer. It tells them why you want the job and why you’d be the best person to hire. The cover letter is a chance to show your personality and your enthusiasm for the position you’re applying for.
Address the letter to your employer. It’s best to use their name if you can.
Say what job you’re writing to them about. The employer might be advertising several positions at the same time, so let them know which one you’re interested in. E.g. ‘I’m excited to apply for the position of steel fixer at Smith Construction.’
Tell the employer why you’re a good choice for the job. You can mention any relevant experience, skills or training, as well as your personal qualities. As a guide, look at the job ad to see what qualities and experience they’re after.
Be enthusiastic. Employers are looking for someone who really wants the job and will give it their all. Tell them why you want this particular job and why you want to work for this particular company. If it seems like you’d take any job, they’re not likely to contact you.
Sign off like you would usually finish a letter or formal email, e.g. Regards, Sam.
Where to get help
If you get stuck and don’t know what to write, don’t worry – there’s heaps of help out there.
Here are some good places to start if you need to know more about writing your CV and cover letter.
Building Recruitment
From CV writing tips to career advice, Building Recruitment can help you find the right job.
Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT can help you write your CV and apply for a job. Find their career resources online, or keep an eye out for their CV and cover letter workshops for personalised help with your job search.
Our most recent intake of MPTT trainees from Unitec, MIT and NZMA were welcomed to the whānau at our ‘Whanaungatanga* Days’ in August and September. These events, led by the Industry Training Organisation for each trade, were a good chance for trainees to meet each other and get to know the MPTT team as well.
Trainees from the second semester of 2017 learned about the support and opportunities MPTT can offer on their journey to becoming fully qualified tradespeople and proud members of the community.
The trainees were all presented with their scholarships and listened to speakers talk about work readiness, how to succeed in the industry and the growing demand for women in the trades.
A trainee from MIT said one highlight was the ‘site visit’, where trainees got to experience what it’s like on the job.
“Having a third-year apprentice train the new guy gives me confidence that I have someone who understands where I’ve been.”
* Whanaungtanga means relationship, kinship, a sense of belonging and of connection through shared experiences.
Competenz and MITO Whanaungatanga Day
Wednesday 16 August
Following a welcome and the awarding of scholarships, our trainees went their separate ways. Welding and Fabrication trainees visited Metal Skills in East Tamaki where they got a good insight into what their futures could look like. They were accompanied by MPTT navigators Tu Nu’uali’itia and Travis Fenton from Oceania Careers Academy as well as Reg Currin from Competenz.
Refrigeration and Aircon trainees visited White Refrigeration in Grey Lynn and were accompanied by Rangi Williams from Competenz. Rangi shared some of the trainees feedback:
‘I like the small sized company as it feels closer and the work seems exciting.’
‘This site visit helped me make up my mind that this is what I want to do.’
‘Steve said there are 2 apprenticeships available at the end of the year. This makes me want to work harder for a spot.’
The automotive trainees remained at MIT where they learned about their future as automotive apprentices. MITO’s Brian Messer and Mark Lawrence said they had a lot of great conversations with the trainees.
Welding and Fabrication trainees were pretty impressed with the equipment at Metal Skills.Feels good.A quick demonstration for Welding and Fabrication students. Great to see some wahine coming through.Navigator, Tu listening with a couple of the Welding and Fabrication studentsCollecting some swag – MPTT shirts for all trainees
Skills Whanaungatanga Day
Wednesday 30 August. Electrical, and Plumbing & Gasfitting
Trainees visited Skills at their offices in Highbrook, East Tamaki. They heard from industry speakers including Ruana Letalu from Ara – Auckland Airport Skills and Job Hub and Issac Liava’a, the National Pasifika manager from Skills.
Matt Matamu, an account manager at Skills also spoke to them about what to expect as an apprentice in the Electrical, Plumbing & Gasfitting trades. Tu and Travis, who are MPTT Navigators from OCA introduced themselves to the trainees and spoke about the role of the navigator. Students enjoyed the visit saying that it had a real cultural feel and that it was nice to see lots of brown faces. Thanks MPTT.
It was neat to meet other MPTT students from Electrical & Plumbing, those guys were a crack-up
Electrical and Plumbing Recipients at Skills Whanaungatanga DaySkills gets the thumbs up from Joeli DavisTravis Fenton getting to know the traineesMPTT navigator, Travis Fenton awards Electrical Trainee Taumua Belford his scholarshipMikayla Pinn receives her scholarshipMPTT Manu Whakahaera, Sam Sefuiva congratulates an MIT trainee on his scholarshipMPTT electrical and plumbing trainees for 2017 Semester 2 intakeGirl power. There are 7 females in this intake, all of them studying electrical. Join the movement
What’s in the bag. Finding out about their futures in the tradesElectrical trainees getting to know each otherMIT trainees enjoy some kai
BCITO WHANAUNGATANGA DAY
Wednesday 6 September. Building and Construction
The Great BCITO Bus Tour took Building and Construction trainees out to Hobsonville Point, where they visited a large building site managed by Complete Build. Trainees were accompanied by Hayden Toomer from BCITO as well as Murray Conroy, Shirley Murray and Ana Cullen, the navigators from the Solomon Group.
The bus tour stopped at Sustainable Coastlines where everyone enjoyed kai cooked up by BCITO’s Richard Mason. Comments from some of the students included;
If I had a car, I’d get a job on a site like that, it’s so massive, heaps of work
Gonna tap BCITO for an apprenticeship!
Thanks for the bag BCITO got ya number
Aleni Ropati and Michael Holani on the Great BCITO Bus TourLots of interest from Tauira in the block plans and models of the developmentHayden Toomer BCITO adds his expert advice. Hunia Rangi from Complete Build to the right and navigator Shirley Murray to the leftTwo 19 year olds from Hunterville spoke of their experience as apprenticesThanks to Richard for his tireless efforts for MPTT. Making bacon.Nothing like some kai to put a smile on facesWomen in trades are highly sought after. Heather and Sarah have great prospects ahead of themBuilding and Construction trainees Issac Nye and Mobeen SahebNetworking time. Joe Seumanutafa, Jay Wairepo and Mayor Rubena get to know each otherBCITO Whanaungatanga Group. What a great dayThomas Inamata looking pretty pleased to be awarded his scholarshipMPTT Ambassador, Sam Sefuiva congratulates Joe Seumanutafa on receiving his scholarshipResult for MPTT trainee Whareumu Karaka
Navigator, Shirley Murray shared her comments on the day:
All the speakers were very informative and well worth listening to. Two of the speakers who presented to our tauira were both aged 19yrs and on apprenticeships. They both came from a small place called Hunterville. They went on to describe how it was for them coming to the big city of Auckland, they touched on things like being homesick, and how they overcame it, also fitness and the need for it to be successful on the job, how they were supported on site by the BCITO’s and their mentors.
One of the speakers also spoke about women in the trades. He said that women are a sort after commodity but unfortunately they don’t seem to be coming through fast enough. The percentage of women engaging in construction needs to be encouraged as it has been recognised in the trade that women make excellent Project Managers. This is an area where women excel because of their ability to multi task in the first instance. This work is more strategic than physical and they cope better with paper and planning in general. A very good career prospect for the right women in Hi Vis.
SERVICEIQ WHANAUNGATANGA DAY
Wednesday 23 August. Consumer Services
Consumer Services Trainees and tutors visited the Toi-ohomai Institute of Technology in Rotorua where they stayed at the Marae overnight. They stopped in Hamilton on the way, where the Horticulture students explored the Botanical Gardens. Later, the hospitality students had the opportunity to cook and serve dinner for their group.
Caroline Harris from ServiceIQ accompanied the group along with one of their apprentices who shared their experiences with the trainees. Feedback from the trainees showed they came back inspired and were keen to do it all again:
Awesome, we need more whanaungatanga with other MPTT students
I made new friends, the tutors were great and participated in activities – we want another one of these events
Food was the best – can’t beat home-cooked kai and thanks for the lunch packs
Thank you MPTT you’re the best!
Talofa lava MPTT, can we organise the next whanaungatanga event?
Thanks to all those who gave up their time and resources to help make these days happen.
