Category: Mechanical Engineering

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Let’s bridge the gap: Empowering Māori and Pasifika in New Zealand’s Trades Sector

The apprenticeship bottleneck we’re not talking about

“You can’t get a job without experience. But you can’t get experience without a job.”

This is the paradox too many Māori and Pasifika trades trainees face. Systemic barriers stand between them and meaningful, stable careers. The same issues are constraining our businesses, industries and nation.

Skills shortages in the trades are well-documented and persistent, especially in new construction, along with the mechanical, infrastructure and electrical fields. The same problem exists in hospitality, advanced manufacturing and primary sector industries, particularly in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. Sam Sefuiva, Mana Whakapai for Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT) says that without urgent and coordinated attention, this issue will plague our future. 

Sefuiva spent more than a decade as the country’s principal adviser for race relations and is a board commissioner for the Tertiary Education Commission. It’s a space he understands deeply. 

“The unmet skills demand isn’t for beginners. It’s for fully qualified and experienced workers. And that’s the problem: how do we expect a new generation to fill those gaps if we don’t give them a real chance to gain experience?” 

The bottleneck between training and work

Each year, hundreds of rangatahi complete pre-trade programmes. Many gain support from initiatives like Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT). MPTT learners are motivated and dedicated. They’ve shown up, studied, passed, and proven they’re ready for the next step.

Yet at the next step, finding an apprenticeship, many are left waiting. And the result? Some end up in unrelated jobs. Others shift into unskilled labour. A few drop out altogether.

Our pipeline is leaking headline over image of pipeline with water pouring out.

Our pipeline
is leaking

Workforce forecasts show construction and infrastructure projects will require a peak workforce of over 590,000 by the end of 2026. That’s almost twice as many workers as we have right now. In fact, it’s the entire population of South Auckland.  Frustratingly, the talent is there to be unlocked, we just need to open the door. 

We’re doing the work to train the right people. However, our Māori and Pasifika pre-trades graduates need to find the apprenticeships that allow them to become qualified tradespeople. If we don’t connect the start to the finish, we’ll always be playing catch-up.

“When I sit with our MPTT tauira and hear their stories, I know they have what’s needed for the mahi. But the road from classroom to site is too long on their own. We need more partners opening doors.

“Every employer who gives our rangatahi a real go helps us all move forward,” comments Sefuiva.

Industry leaders and researchers recognise Māori and Pasifika as a key solution; these communities are a vast untapped resource.

Māori and Pasifika populations together are already a quarter of the country’s working-age population, and by 2043 will be around 30% of New Zealand workers.

Unlocking the potential among Māori and Pasifika benefits all Aotearoa. As the rest of Aotearoa ages, these young, growing populations are crucial to sustaining our future workforce, rate and tax bases. 

MPTT is focused on impact

MPTT exists to support Māori and Pasifika into trades careers that are high-value and high-need.

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is home to the largest Māori and Pasifika population in the Southern Hemisphere, with a young and growing workforce that holds immense potential for economic uplift. These communities have been disproportionately underemployed, even as trade industries face a shortage of skilled workers.

MPTT is on a mission to bridge this gap, creating opportunity for communities while meeting our region’s workforce needs. We’re connecting people with training and preparing them to successfully transition into sustainable employment.

MPTT Auckland is the largest of 14 national consortia networks. We represent vocational education providers, both public and private, key industries across 15 trade sectors, and Māori and Pasifika communities. Our purpose is to create long-lasting social and economic transformation by building Māori and Pasifika leadership through careers in the skilled trades.

Kyle Brown, plumbing apprentice
July 2024 MPTT cohort

We provide wraparound support: culturally-focused mentoring, scholarships, and transition-to-employment guidance. In a system once designed without a cultural perspective, this has been a game-changer. At last, our learners can see faces like their own and learn from trainers who understand their worlds. It has revolutionised a training sector that did not cater well for Māori and Pasifika, so it logically saw poor outcomes for them. We work with employers to deliver what they’re looking for. 

Cecelia Tuala, Programme Delivery Lead at Downer New Zealand, notes that MPTT’s focus on work readiness benefits employers, which is why they continue to seek MPTT graduates.  

“Downer looks for employees who have a strong focus on health and safety, technical skills, and professionalism. Big projects mean a big focus on managing risk and keeping people safe. Health and safety are huge for us.  But the biggest thing is attitude, how you turn up every day within our business.” 

Earning qualifications takes time

Building a talent pipeline is not a quick win; neither is building trades careers. The pre-trade training takes a year. Gaining a full qualification can take another three to five years, depending on the employer, trade, and contract.

During that time, government support mechanisms can change. Initiatives like Fees Free, the Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF), and Apprenticeship Boost have all been introduced – and then altered, reduced, or phased out.

For learners, this means uncertainty. For employers, it makes it harder to commit. This inconsistency works against a strong, sustainable supply of talent. 

Enrolments are up; we’re letting graduates down

Despite the challenges, MPTT and many of our partners brought visibility to the benefits of a trades career. Interest is up and enrolments are rising. Yet, New Zealand’s overall apprenticeship completion rates remain low compared to other similar countries. This is the pinch point, and it’s hurting us all.

We need employers to be supported to train, mentor, and hire so our young people can gain the experience they need to become qualified, securing futures for their whānau and our industries. 

The employers who step up will be the first to benefit. The greater strength of diversity in your team is well-known; it boosts resilience, problem-solving and efficiency. Furthermore, MPTT graduates come highly recommended by our industry-experienced Navigators who know them well. Graduates are ready with tools, safety certifications and clear expectations about punctuality and work ethic.

Today’s short-term pressures bring long-term consequences

We know that most construction businesses in New Zealand are small and run lean. When the market contracts, it’s the unqualified workers and apprentices who are first to go. When it rebounds, employers tend to stick with short-term labour hires rather than commit to long-term training.

The consequences are delayed projects and ballooning costs and reliance on transient or migrant labour. Tinkering with immigration laws doesn’t do anything to build a strong skills pipeline or create an environment that retains our best performers. Instead, these things continue to perpetuate the situation, keeping us in a skills deficit.

All the while, sitting on the sidelines are young Māori and Pasifika with the potential to be our next generation of trades leaders. The irony is startling.   

We can act today

We need systemic change – and shared commitment. The recent ConCOVE report (Construction & Infrastructure Centre of Vocational Excellence) made it clear: our current approach is fragmented, short-term, and doesn’t prioritise completion. These are all things we can address if we work together and start now. We’re not purporting to have all the answers, but we know the strength of an industry pulling together. 

1.   Give long-term certainty to policy 

We need secure, bipartisan support for apprenticeship incentives that outlast election cycles.

“We’ve seen this cycle before. Look at the original Māori Trades Training Scheme. When political priorities shift, programmes get cut or restructured, and we lose the institutional knowledge and relationships that took years to build. Our employers remember that uncertainty, and it makes them hesitant to invest deeply in training pathways,” says Sefuiva. 

2.   Commit as big employers

Larger firms working on long-term infrastructure projects are uniquely positioned to lead. They should be incentivised to take on apprentices and invest in training — and many are.

At Ventia, their size is their strength when it comes to growing talent. The company is big enough to hire groups of new ‘tradies’ together.

“Most MPTT candidates come to Ventia as a cohort. They learn and grow together, and they have peers who understand where they’re at,” says Ricky Steedman, Kaitohutohu Māori and Strategic Relationships Manager.

“If you start out with Ventia, you’ll have the opportunity to go through a whole range of industries and roles if you want to. For example, you could start in transport, go into a team lead role and transition across to other management positions in other sectors.” 

3. Strengthen employer-education partnerships

The best outcomes come from partnerships when employers, educators, and support providers work together with aligned expectations and accountability.

“We also need to fund small employers in ways that make taking on apprentices a viable and supported option rather than a risk. New Zealand’s construction sector is overwhelmingly made up of small firms — 97%, and most apprenticeship opportunities inevitably sit with them.

“Targeted support can turn that from a risk into a viable, well-supported pathway,” says Sefuiva. 

Consistent investment and support for Maori and Pasifika ownership and vocational education providers, employers and others involved in the VET system is vital. A Maori and Pasifika “centric” approach not only works for everyone, it is the best way to ensure no-one is left behind. 

4. Invest in completions, not just starts

Much of our system incentivises participation. But what good is an entry without a finish line?  Apprenticeship completion rates in Aotearoa range from 39% to 58%. We’re far behind countries like Germany and Ireland, where the rates range from 65% to 75%. This needs to change. 

5. Ensure equity in outcomes

Let’s not overlook who is most affected by the ‘leaky pipe’ of apprenticeships. The systemic issues impact all learners, but they fall heaviest on Māori and Pasifika youth who are statistically more likely to face financial hardship, live in multigenerational households, and need to earn while they learn. That doesn’t mean they’re less capable. But it does mean they need a system that meets them where they are.

We must value completion as much as enrolment — and provide support, pastoral care, and employer training that reflects that.

Sefuiva explains, “Completing an apprenticeship creates lasting benefits for both the trainee and the industry. With those qualifications comes endorsement of their skills and real pride. It gives them options for their future and something to build on.

“From the industry perspective, every apprentice who completes brings fresh capability to the workforce. Apprenticeship opportunities support ongoing business success and help safeguard the future of trades in our communities. They help us make sure there are enough skilled people for our future.” 

Now is the time for leadership

Who is responsible? Is it the government’s job? Employers? Industry bodies? The answer is all of us. But who will take the lead?

Sefuiva says, “We’re doing our part. But a young person’s future can’t depend on timing the economic cycle right. If we want to grow a skilled workforce, we need to grow it purposefully.”

Are you ready?

As employers, for Aotearoa New Zealand, and certainly for Māori and Pasifika rangatahi, we need to stop thinking short-term. Now is the time to start building the workforce we want in five, ten, and twenty years. At MPTT, we think this means working together across government, training, and industry to build clear, connected, and culturally responsive pathways. A collaborative pathway has already proven its worth in getting people interested and trained for the trades. Now let’s talk about getting them working.  

If you’re an employer, policymaker, or part of the vocational education system, let’s talk.

Is your organisation facing these challenges? Have you found solutions that are working?

It’s time to build a system that delivers for everyone — industry, employers, and our future Māori and Pasifika tradespeople.

Ready to work

Meet the people waiting in the wings

Eseta, Jazlin, Jonah and Loma are real MPTT graduates whose futures are on hold, not for lack of motivation, but because the next step — the apprenticeship — remains out of reach. We’re sharing their stories to show the human face of the issues we’ve discussed. If you’re an employer, you could be the one to unlock that potential.

Eseta Lafaele is known for being one of the most engaged students in her cohort while studying Level 3 Construction – Carpentry at MIT.  She’s taken every opportunity to connect with the industry and build her work readiness skills. Although she has worked as an assistant accountant for several years, she loves working with her hands and is passionate about becoming a licensed builder.

Skills:

  • Safe work practices and meeting compliance requirements
  • Effective communications with colleagues and customers
  • Specs and drawings for construction projects
  • Simple calculations for construction work
  • Understanding of basic building materials and technology
  • Carpentry and building construction, and installation processes and techniques
  • Delivering work in a project environment

Eseta says constant knockbacks are disheartening, but she maintains her motivation. “I’m now doing the level four qualification, and I’m also doing a lot of carpentry work at home to practise my skills.

“Most ads are looking for people with experience. But we all have to start from the very bottom and work our way up. If an employer can give someone like me the opportunity to learn, we will grow and be able to offer so much.”

Enquire about Eseta

Jonah Leota is a Level 3 Construction Carpentry graduate who stands out as a dedicated worker and genuine leader.
While completing his pre-trades training at NZMA, he was elected to be Class Rep by his peers. He also led his class project team with a humble and inclusive approach. He’s eager to take any learning opportunity and takes the initiative to grow or look for opportunities. His attendance was consistent, and tutors found he’d often go out of his way to help them.

The results he’s gained in the classroom and with practical skills show his attitude and industriousness have paid off.

In looking for an apprenticeship, Jonah has brought the same effort and focus. He keeps in touch with tutors about any building roles and also seeks feedback and improvements for his CV. In October 2024, his course finished. He went door-knocking and applied for many apprenticeship roles. He’s found some labouring work from time to time, but his dream of being a builder is gradually fading.  

Skills:

  • Communication and timekeeping
  • Reading project specs and plans
  • Basic building calculations
  • Core construction skills
  • Best practice health and safety
Enquire about Jonah

Jazlin Bing is highly qualified and capable. Her employer will be delighted to snap her up; she just needs a shot. Jazlin has pre-trade training in both Automotive Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. She wants to become a mechanic and work on light vehicles, bringing a unique breadth of skills.

Skills:

  • Knowledge of compliance and regulation
  • Engine maintenance and driveline systems
  • Operation and minor repairs on electric and electronic vehicle systems
  • Maintenance of steering, suspension and brakes
  • Steel, stainless steel and aluminium welding
  • Steel cutting, forming and pipe bending
  • Operation of industrial-sized lathes, milling machines and drilling machines

​​As her studies near their end, Jazlin has been door-knocking and applying online for an apprenticeship role – she’s applied for more than 50 jobs.

“Almost all my friends are in very similar positions. The only person I know who has found a job was through pure luck; she went door-knocking and chanced upon a place that was going to advertise the next day. I just need my chance to prove myself.”

Enquire about Jazlin

Apisaloma (Loma) Henry is an engaged and eager learner who’s quick to pick up new skills. His pre-trade training in Level 3 Electrical Engineering has revealed his strong practical aptitude.

In October, he’ll graduate from NZMA. However, he’s already work-ready with a solid work history behind him. Apisaloma worked for years in printing, but has gathered experience in labouring that has included everything from asbestos removal and demolition work to scaffolding.

He’ll be an asset to the team he joins. He’s never afraid to ask questions and keeps an eye out for where his help is needed.

Apisaloma has the maturity of a new father, and he takes his responsibilities seriously. He’s driven to support his family and start saving for a house by building his electrical career. So far, he’s spent plenty of time cold-calling and applying for apprentice roles.

Skills:

  • Basic electrical theory and trade practice.
  • Workplace safety
  • Knowledge of NZ electricity supply.
  • Basic practical skills required by electricians.
  • Drawing and interpreting electrical diagrams.
  • Knowledge of switchboards and electric motors
  • Installation of cables and electrical equipment
  • Electrical Testing and diagnosis
Enquire about Loma
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Award winners share their advice on succeeding in Pre-Trades

Each year, among the hardworking MPTT scholars, we recognise the most outstanding learner in each trade’s pre-training course. As they received their awards, they were full of encouragement for others.

Self-belief is essential

According to his tutors in Electrical pre-trades, Electrical D’Troit Leef-Hema is a born leader and tino pukumahi (very hard-working) young man, with an awesome attitude and is always willing to help anyone who needs support, be it in their studies or just in general. He says, “Don’t be afraid to take a risk and put your name out there.”

Electrical award nominees Anaru Carroll and D’Troit Leef-Hema with MPTT Mana Whakahaere Issac Liava’a

Do the mahi

Chloe Tupou received the Outstanding MPTT Women in Trades Award for 2023

The nominees and winners of the Outstanding Graduate Awards all worked hard in their courses. Chloe Tupou advises, “Listen in class and take down every detail and every bit of information you can get into your head.”

Her tutor explained, “Chloe had a goal to succeed, and she did.  She contributed in all classes, showed good automotive skills, outstanding paperwork, great attitude, attendance and communication. 

As a result of her attitude, Chloe has already secured a job in the automotive industry. She says, “In five years, it’s a big ask, but I’d like to open up my own workshop and become my own boss. I’m very into my boy racer vehicles, but if not those old Mustangs.”

Enjoy the ride!

Nadia Ruke was the winner of the Outstanding Hairdressing Graduate. Her tutor, Vicky Grant, says her award was definitely well deserved. “her attendance and her completion of work were to a very high standard. She’s a great team player.” 

Nadia is already in full-time work. She’s looking towards a future travelling the world and focusing on avant-garde hair styling. She says, “Advice I’d give to others starting this journey is to stop stressing – that’s the big one. It’s about taking things one step at a time and prioritising well.

Celebrate Māori and Pasifika role models

All the students nominated for our 2023 Outstanding Graduate awards have set a fantastic example and all deserved to win. Congratulations to all of them — thank you for inspiring others. 

The nominees for Outstanding MPTT Trainee were (winners in bold):

Automotive:  Fred Tollemache (MIT), and Shakyro Marsters (Unitec)

Automotive Award nominees Shakyro Marsters (left) and Fred Tollemache with representative from MITO.

Construction: William Saulala (NZMA), Harris Laulu (OCA), Eliu Fui (Unitec) and Hale Faiumu (MIT)

MPTT Construction Award nominees

Construction Award nominees from left: William Saulala, Eliu Fui and Harris Laulu with David Parsons from BCITO

Electrical: D’Troit Leef-Hema (MIT) and Anaru Carroll (Unitec)

Hairdressing: Nadia Ruke (MIT) and Jamiee Tito (MIT)

Hospitality: Felecity Bray (MIT)

Mechanical Engineering: Bobbi Pouesi (Unitec)

Plumbing, Gasfitting & Drainlaying: Stormy Cruze Reihana (MIT) and Hafoka Losaki (NZMA)

Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying award winner Stormy Cruze Reihana (MIT). His tutor Terrance Upfold said Stormy always gave his full attention and commitment and is an outstanding student with a promising future ahead.

Refrigeration & Air Conditioning: Krishal Singh (MIT)

Krishal Singh received his award from Kam Govender, MIT.

Women in Trades: Chloe Tupou (MIT Automotive), Jamiee Tito (MIT Hairdressing) and Alilia Vaka (MIT Mechanical Engineering)

Two of the nominees for Outstanding MPTT Women in Trades for 2023 Chloe Tupou (left) and Alilia Vaka (centre) with Jodi Franklin from MITO.

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David Parsons – MPTT Kaitohutohu Ahumahi

David Parsons — MPTT Kaitohutohu Ahumahi
David Parsons is of Ngāpuhi decent, his marae is Taheke, he whakapapa’s to the Pou whānau. At MPTT he is our Kaitohutohu Ahumahi.
David has almost 20 years of experience with the BCITO (Building and Construction Training Organisation) helping people navigate the trades. He is delighted to join the MPTT project team so that he can give back to the sector he loves and help support Māori and Pasifika into trades.

David’s role is as an industry connector. He’ll be supporting tauira, providers, and employers to ensure strong, smooth progressions from pre-trades training to apprenticeships and beyond. 

He’ll help MPTT tauira take their next step once they have completed their pre-trade course with their navigators who together will help them find employment and an apprenticeship.

His long experience in the industry means he’s seen how much success spreads when trainees commit to the trades.

“Those who stay the distance to get qualified become sought after successful employers who inspire others to join the trades. This tuakana teina relationship is special to Māori and Pasifika and is immensely powerful.”

David acknowledges that it can be a challenge to persevere and get qualified, but he says the long-term gains are worth it.

David is here to help anyone who wants support seeing their apprenticeship or apprentice all the way through.

David also wants to encourage more Māori to step forward and put themselves out there. By doing so they can receive the support they need to succeed in the trades. “It’s about making things better for Māori and Pasifika,” he says. With David on the team, we’re sure to do more of that than ever.

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MPTT Navigators help students reach their destination

Makahn with some of her MPTT students
All MPTT students have the support of an MPTT navigator, which not only sets our programme apart but also sets MPTT students apart when they start work. Our Navigators mentor students every step of the way through their studies so they graduate work-ready and poised to thrive.

We spoke with Navigator Makahn Warren-Chapman to hear more about what MPTT Navigators do. Makahn, who is Samoan, Māori (Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Te Whakatōhea, Te Whānau a Apanui, Ngāi Te Rangi) and Irish, loves what she does. She sees her work as a way to give back to her community in South Auckland, helping people build new futures for themselves.

“In a nutshell, I hold a mentor role for students who are studying to become tradespeople. I’m here to ensure that they’re ready to leave their studies work-ready and they can start their careers,” says Makahn.

“The scope of support that MPTT offers through Navigators like me is quite wide. We’re there for students when they first start their pre-trades training, through to when they graduate, as they seek employment and find a placement in their chosen trade. We give face-to-face support, one on one meetings, and group workshops.”

A major goal of MPTT is to nurture more Māori and Pasifika into leadership positions, and this means setting them up well from the beginning. It includes helping people build confidence and know how to perform at their best.

Navigators walk alongside students

Makahn says she and her team consider the whole journey so they can give the right support at the right time.

“We offer specific support at different times during people’s study. For example, in the first part of the year, we start by getting to know the MPTT ākonga, what their goals are, and how we can make that happen by building individual pathways.”

Navigators support ākonga to identify anything that might stand in the way of their progress so they can help them make a plan to get past any obstacles. This includes things such as getting a driver’s licence and arranging childcare.

“One of the things we have identified is that people might not know how to write an effective CV, so we’ve developed a workshop that can assist with this. We also offer workshops about how to manage job interviews.”

Navigators help find and fix

Navigators are ready to advocate for ākonga in whatever way matters most.

“Sometimes people struggle just to put food on the table. So, we can connect them to food banks or food parcels.” Makahn says she’s also helped students understand what support options they might have for things such as devices.

“There are a few schemes that can help students with devices. We support ākonga to get their application for those and fill them out. We also help push their applications forward. We know that a lot of the time, our Māori and Pasifika students are kind of left on the outskirts and don’t know how to advocate for themselves. So, we do a lot of that.”

There’s one piece of advice she gives to every Māori and Pasifika student.

“Don’t be scared to ask for the support that you need. Some of us can be humble, and we tend to shy away from asking for help. But that help is available. And not only that, but providing support to MPTT students is our whole purpose as Navigators.

Makahn with other members of the MPTT Navigation team at a workshop held on Unitec’s campus

Plenty of pathways to explore

Makahn says an important part of her work is raising awareness of what potential pathways are available. Trades training can unlock a huge range of options.

“There are so many opportunities within the industry for Māori and Pasifika – more than people might realise.

“Some people have the idea that studying trades leads to only specific roles such as becoming a sparky or mechanic, but there are so many different pathways that open up. We work hard to help students gain awareness about all the career options training makes them eligible for.”

When students are ready to start work, the Navigators can help guide them through the process of gaining employment. Navigators act as a link between training institutes, students, and industry so they understand where job opportunities are and can help with placements.

Makahn says it’s important to consider the fit between the trainee and the employer. Navigators look at the culture of the workplace, what kind of support is offered, apprenticeship pathways and much more.

Once there’s a job offer, Navigators can help explain what it means. They can talk through how it might compare and expectations. This can give both ākonga and their whānau reassurance about their direction.

But the support doesn’t stop there. Navigators stay in touch as people settle into their positions, and graduates remain part of the Māori and Pasifika Trades Training community. There’s always useful information, opportunities, development and help on hand.  

Adventure awaits the ambitious

“One of the things I’d like for Māori and Pasifika people to know is that there is just so much out there. If they’re willing to do a little digging to create networks with others and maybe even step out of their comfort zone, they’ll find the opportunities they want.

“As a profession, the trades are evolving so quickly, and there are so many different roles and responsibilities within each area. It’s not an industry that’s stagnant – it’s always growing.”

And that’s why Makahn wants to see more trainees join the MPTT programme, to help them gain a qualification and build a career that will give them a stable and rewarding future.

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Māori and Pasifika helping to forge a legacy at D&H Steel

D&H Steel team
What do Puhinui Train Station, Auckland University, Costco in Westgate, and MIT all have in common? MPTT graduates have helped build them as part of the team at D&H Steel.

D&H Steel is New Zealand’s largest fabricator and has a reputation as an industry leader that sets a standard for quality. The company has long prided itself on its commitment to family, equal opportunity and diversity. 

D&H Steel first sought a relationship with MPTT six years ago as a partner for its growth plans. Once a small family company, the team is now a ‘big family’ company.

It has over 250 employees, and MPTT people have stuck with them from the moment they joined as trainees. Better yet, there’s room for more!

Team spirit
One of the teams at D&H Steel.

Steel is a solid career choice

Cameron Rogers is the workshop manager at D&H Steel and says Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT) aligns well with their company’s values. He also explained why there is so much opportunity for Māori and Pāsifika in the industry. 

“When you work in steel, you’ve got a job for life. Unlike some other types of construction, you’re part of the whole process in steel. 

“You may choose to start right back in manufacture, or you can be involved in the fabricating and welding. And that’s just in the workshop. You can also go onsite and work with the cranes to erect buildings. 

“On the office side, there’s computer design of the structures. We have machine operators on the floor, right up to supervisory and management roles.  

“There’s an opportunity to specialise in the area you most enjoy or to move around and learn all parts of the industry. This is particularly the case in D&H Steel because of our size.

Cameron Rogers
Cameron Rogers, Workshop Manager at D&H Steel

Relationships are built to last

“We’re like a big family. We don’t have an HR department because every supervisor gets to know their team and takes responsibility for them. The relationships we build last generations.

In fact, we actually have quite a few father and son pairs. Three of the first MPTT trainees we met are still working here, along with more we’ve employed over the years. 

Right now, there are a bunch of MPTT tradies who are part of our team. They all completed their pre-trades in Mechanical Engineering (or similar) at Unitec. Kathryn Billing has been working in the trade for a year and is now qualified with her welding ticket. Jacob Broad and Junior Faamausilis are both Fabrication apprentices working towards certification through ATNZ. Valusaga Iopu has successfully completed his certification in Fabrication.

Cameron says D&H Steel is particularly good at creating pathways for those who want to learn and achieve their goals through hard work and focus. Importantly, the company aims to take at least four more people into apprenticeships each year.

“Apprentices here are not left to make their way with periodic check-ins. Instead, they get support throughout their hours. They also pick up a number of other industry certifications along the way to their fabrication qualification”.

D&H Steel team
Some of the MPTT alumni currently working at D&H Steel with Cameron Rogers (centre) and Dean Pouwhare (right)
Jacob Broad
Jacob is working towards his apprenticeship in Heavy Steel Fabrication through ATNZ
Junior Faamausilis
Junior Faamausilis is working to complete his apprenticeship in Fabrication. He has his roots in South Auckland
Kathryn Billing
Kathryn was enrolled at Unitec as part of MPTTs scholarship programme

MPTT is part of the family

MPTT Navigators play a special role at D&H Steel, says Cameron. Tu Nu’ualiti’ia was one of the first navigators we worked with, and he’s continued to do so in his role at Unitec, advocating for Māori and Pasifika Trades Training. 

“We’re pleased to count the navigators as part of our family. They’re dedicated to helping MPTT trainees overcome any barriers they might face and things that pop up in life,” says Cameron.

Dean Pouwhare, D&H Steel Operations Manager and Director, likes seeing more Māori and Pasifika enter the industry. He sees MPTT as playing a vital role in this. 

“The sector presents a great opportunity and a solid career path. Bringing in new talent through MPTT  is helping to futureproof the structural steel industry and build its diversity. And trainees get to work alongside highly skilled people with long experience to share. 

Dean Pouwhare
Dean has been a champion in encouraging more Māori and Pasifika to take up a career in the Steel industry

The future is strong

D&H Steel’s plant is state of the art. They were first introduced to MPTT by Hawkins with whom they have a long and successful relationship. The company’s focus on innovation and performance sees them working not only with Hawkins but also Naylor Love, Haydn and Rollett, Fletcher and Macrennie Construction on some of New Zealand’s biggest projects and most critical buildings.

The team is currently working on one of New Zealand’s largest warehouses and a significant roof structure, which will cap a film studio. On the shop floor, welders are constructing pieces for an elevated running track that will sweep above a new sportsfield in the city’s heart. They’ve been involved in constructing some of our newest hospitals. You’ve probably even swept over one of their distinctive bridges.

D&H Steel is literally changing the shape of Auckland and its skyline. Years from now, its work will still be lifting our city to new heights. Everyone who is part of the team is truly forging a proud legacy.  

Find out more about MPTTs scholarship programme in Mechanical Engineering and where to study.

Just some of the projects D&H Steel has worked on.

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Light at the end of the tunnel

George Patterson
Coming to New Zealand for rugby, George Patterson found his passion in something he never expected. Since receiving his MPTT scholarship, he’s become a qualified mechanical engineer and has spent the last 10 months working on Watercare’s $1.2 billion Central Interceptor project, New Zealand’s longest wastewater overflow tunnel. But the journey hasn’t always been easy. Find out how George overcame a fear of asking questions and became an invaluable part of his team.

A career in the trades wasn’t George’s first plan. But after seeing a demand for mechanical engineers, he decided to give it a try.

At the time, rugby was still his priority. But as he learned more about the trade, he began to develop a real passion for it.

With support from his family and an MPTT scholarship, George completed his National Certificate in Welding (Level 3 and Level 4) at Manukau Institute of Technology.

“My mum and dad always encouraged me towards something like this,” says George, who grew up in Suva but is from Levuka, Ovalau Island in Fiji. “They said sport would only take me so far.”

In 2016, George landed an apprenticeship at Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure in Papakura, with help from his MPTT navigator. But life on the work site was more challenging than he’d expected.

Learning to speak up

MPTT graduate George Patterson with his boss, Ian Norton
George (left) rose to the challenge of his apprenticeship with help from his boss Ian ‘Nod’ Norton, who he now calls his ‘working dad’.

George’s apprenticeship journey was a bumpy road. Not everything made sense at first, and just learning the basics – like the different types of pumps and motors and their purposes – seemed difficult.

“To be honest, it was nothing like what I expected. I knew nothing! I was so fresh in the industry.”

“A lot of kids grow up working on cars and helping their parents out with stuff around home, but I was never a hands-on person when I was growing up.”

At times, George doubted his career choices and his future as a tradie.

“The first two years, I was like, ‘What am I even doing here?’ and ‘Is this the right thing for me?’ I was fighting with myself to stay there.”

But George pushed himself and grew a thicker skin, challenging himself to ask more questions on the job.

“It was hard to put my hand up and say, ‘Can you please explain that and slow it down for me?’ That’s what you have to learn to do though.

“I carried a little notebook in my overalls and wrote things down during the day. Then I’d find my boss Nod at smoko, and ask him to explain things I didn’t understand. He helped me a lot – he was really patient and fair with me.”

‘I never gave up’

George isn’t the only MPTT graduate on site – his good mate Fetuli Tukia has gone through the programme at the same time.

As he started gaining knowledge and experience, so too came the respect of his workmates and boss.

“It started to click for me. My boss was putting me on bigger jobs and I’d do them, so he’d give me more jobs. I started to actually do the job because I understood it.”

George’s boss, Ian ‘Nod’ Norton, says George has become an invaluable part of the team since he started working for him in 2016.

“He found it challenging at first, but the great thing with George is that if he doesn’t know something, he asks,” says Nod.

“Then, especially last year, he started picking it up and getting into the nitty gritty. And now he’s the most trustworthy one I’ve got underneath me. We’re like a family here — he’s like a son to me.

“I can leave him with any job now and go away, and I know he’ll do it, or he’ll ask me if he’s confused.”

George currently works for Ghella Abergeldie Joint Venture on the Central Interceptor – a super-sized wastewater tunnel that runs underground from Grey Lynn to the Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant.

He spends most of his time constructing the tunnel boring machine, and says the experience has solidified a love for his trade.

George is 'fascinated' by the tunnel boring machine he's helping put together and hopes to one day lead a team in building these machines.
George has been using his skills to put together a tunnel boring machine, which will soon help create a super-sized wastewater tunnel. George is ‘fascinated’ by the tunnel boring machine he’s putting together, and hopes to one day lead a team in building these machines.

“There were so many times I could have given up and gone back to Fiji. That would have been the easy option. But I didn’t want to give up.

“I always stayed and pushed on. I knew in my head there was a light at the end of the tunnel – literally, because I was working in a tunnel.

“I always knew it would get better. And it did — I’m happy now. I come home from work smiling.”

Perseverance pays off

MPTT Graduate, George Patterson who completed his apprenticeship while working on Watercare’s $1.2 billion Central Interceptor project, New Zealand’s longest wastewater overflow tunnel.
In the tough times of his apprenticeship, George kept going with encouragement from his family and advice from his grandad that ‘the smooth sea doesn’t make a skilled sailor’.

Last year, the 28-year-old finally completed his apprenticeship and is now a fully qualified mechanical engineer.

“My dad is a man of few words. We had a video call and I brought up my certificate for him to see, and he gave me this big smile. I could see it in his eyes that he was proud.

“And my mum was really proud too. When I told her, she was so happy and said, ‘All your hard work has paid off’.”

Becoming qualified brought a big pay rise — and George knew exactly how he wanted to celebrate.

“As soon as I got qualified and signed the contract, I bought a Ford Ranger ute. I’m six-foot-six, so I’ve always wanted a big ute that I can fit into. I love it and I’m so grateful.”

He says the pay rise has given him heaps more financial security, and he has a few specific money goals.

“I’m young so I’m not really thinking about buying a house yet, but I’m thinking of investing it and making my money grow, and maybe getting a house later.”

George loves his work and has big plans for his future in the trades.

“Every day I go to work, I’m getting new knowledge. I go home thinking, ‘I built that – I did all of that’. So I feel like I own it. I didn’t really have that before. It makes me feel peace inside that I did this job and helped this company.

“In 10 years, I’d love to be one of the leading mechanical engineers on a tunnel boring machine build. And later on, I’d like to be a mechanical superintendent, which means I’d be running a team of engineers. That’s what my boss Nod does now.”

George encourages future tradies to ask lots of questions and have the courage to ask for help.

“When things get hard, just ask. I feel like that’s a big thing for Pacific Islanders – we’re shy about asking questions, asking for help, speaking up. But there’s never a dumb question. And if people do laugh at you, just remind yourself you’re learning something. Always remember you’re an apprentice and you’re still learning.”

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Crossing the finish line:
Get qualified on time

Finishing your apprenticeship means you can stop studying and start enjoying being a qualified tradie – including earning more money and having more job opportunities.

But getting qualified is more of a marathon than a sprint. From your pre-trades course to the end of your apprenticeship you’ll be training for several years, so it’s important to stay motivated along the way.

The exact time it takes depends on your trade, and whether you already have some of the skills you need (like if you’ve worked as a hammerhand). But no matter what your situation, the sooner you get certified, the sooner you can enjoy the benefits. Plus, if you wait too long without progressing, you might need to pay another apprenticeship fee.

Remember, you’re never alone in your training journey – there’s heaps of support to help you get your qualification. So read on for how to ensure you complete your apprenticeship in good time, and what to do when problems come up.

Why get qualified?

It takes work to get your qualification, so it’s important to remember why you’re doing it.

Jodi Franklin from MITO says there are a lot of benefits to getting qualified besides not having to study anymore.

“A lot of things happen when you get qualified. It’s not just a certificate; generally you’re rewarded in the workplace with a pay increase. And the world’s your oyster in terms of being able to take your qualification all over the world. If you want to go and live somewhere else for a change of scenery, you can take your qualification with you.”

On the other hand, if you don’t get qualified, you’ll limit your opportunities and how much you can earn, says Jodi.

“It doesn’t matter how close you get to completing your qualification. Even if you finish 99%, it’s not recognised until you complete it.”

So if you want more money and more mana on the job, and the freedom to take your skills overseas or start your own business, get your certification sorted as soon as you can.

Take away: You need to get qualified to get the benefits from your training, like more money and more job opportunities.
Good timing

When you sign on for an apprenticeship, your training provider (called an Industry Training Organisation, or ITO) will let you know how long it’ll ideally take you to complete your qualification. Depending on your trade, this is usually between 2 years and 4 ½ years of being an apprentice.

But it’s important to know that apprenticeships aren’t just about the hours you spend on site. Instead, you need to show the skills you’ve developed, says Doug Leef from BCITO.

“It’s all about competency. We all learn differently and, as such, progression from person to person differs. A lot of this comes down to the relationships forged on the job site and the quality of training and supervision given to trainees.”

Your employer is responsible for making sure you get the practical training you need during your apprenticeship, says Doug.

“That onus falls on the employer. It’s their responsibility to get trainees qualified. When they sign the apprentice up, we make the employer aware of the scope of work required.”

Take away: Apprentices need to show they have the right practical skills. Your boss is responsible for making sure you learn all the skills you need on the job, but you can help move things along quickly. Have a chat to your boss or ITO training advisor about the skills you need to learn, and make a plan for what you want to get signed off at your next meeting with your training advisor.

Getting qualified is more of a marathon than a sprint.

In theory

But it’s not enough to just show up to work and do what your employer says. As an apprentice, you need to understand why you’re doing what you’re doing. That’s where theory or book work comes in.

“It can be a bit daunting to have all this theory to learn,” says Doug. “But you’ve got to understand the underpinning theory and the reasons behind why you’re doing what you’re doing. It’s not just throwing houses up; it’s about compliance, accountability and administration.”

The biggest challenge for most apprentices is finding time for their theory work on top of working full-time. Depending on your trade and schedule, you might do your theory work during a block course (where you go into a classroom with other trainees on certain days), a night class after working hours, or at home in your spare time.

“It’s about managing your hours,” says Aimee Hutcheson from Skills. “Most apprentices are flat tack as soon as they enter the industry, so they need to work with their employer to fit in time for their theory work.”

To make sure your theory work doesn’t build up and get overwhelming, make time to work on it regularly, says Jodi.

“The most successful apprentices are the ones who get into a routine. It might help to go along to a night class. Otherwise, you need to find that one night where you’re not playing rugby or busy with other commitments. Even just a couple of hours a week makes a big difference. Doing a little bit and often is the key to success.”

Take away: Make time every week to do a bit of your theory work, so you don’t fall behind. When you regularly do work towards your qualification, you know you’re building your skills and getting closer to being a skilled tradie. And remember, you don’t have to do it alone – there’s heaps of support available, so if you need help or have a question, talk to your boss or training advisor.
Needing help – it’s normal

Many trainees feel whakamā (shy or embarrassed) when asking for help. But the truth is, everyone needs help at some point in their training.

Remember, it’s normal to need to ask questions sometimes, and no-one expects you to know everything.

“We’re all embarrassed to ask for help from time to time,” says Doug. “But you need to put your hand up early. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.”

One reason you might need support is if you don’t understand something your tutor says in class. It’s really important to speak up, because no question is a dumb question. Chances are, other students are wondering about the same thing.

“We do have people who have had to resit exams because of the spiral effect of being too shy to ask questions in class,” says Aimee. “Then they’re resitting because they’ve never had the relationship with their tutor to not be whakamā to ask questions and ask for help.”

Having learning differences, like dyslexia, can also mean you need to ask for help. If you’re not sure if that applies to you, don’t worry. Your ITO will do a quick test to see if you’d benefit from help with literacy or numeracy – and there’s plenty of support available.

“You can talk to your employer or tutor if you need help, or your training advisor (from your ITO) is just a phone call away if you have any questions or concerns,” says Aimee.

“You’ve got to build that confidence to be able to ask questions and ask for help if you’re struggling. At the end of the day, we all want you to get through and get qualified, and to feel like you’re achieving as well – to understand what you’re learning, not just check a box.”

Take away: Everyone needs help sometimes, so make sure you speak up if you don’t understand something or are finding anything difficult.
Work worries

At some point during your apprenticeship, you might need to change jobs.

“Some trainees want to change employers because they’re travelling too far for work, or there’s not enough work, or maybe they’re not getting on with people on site,” says Doug. “It’s not the trainee or the employer’s fault – it’s just life.”

It’s okay to change jobs if you need to, but remember that an apprenticeship is an agreement between three parties: you, your employer and your apprenticeship provider. So when you leave your employer, you break the apprenticeship contract and you’ll need to sign another one with your next employer.

Before you change jobs, make sure your new boss is supportive of you doing an apprenticeship, says Jodi.

“You don’t have to stick it out in an employment situation that’s not right for you. And it’s the same if apprentices are laid off because their employer doesn’t have enough work for them or they want experience in other parts of the industry.

“You can change jobs and continue your apprenticeship, if you have the support of your new employer.”

If you’ve already had parts of your apprenticeship signed off and completed, don’t worry. The work you’ve already completed will stay in the system and you can transfer that to your new job.

But remember, changing jobs often takes time, which can delay your progress. For example, your new employer might want you to do a trial for a few months before giving you an apprenticeship. So change jobs if you need to, but don’t do it lightly.

Take away: It’s best to stay with your employer if you can. If you need to change jobs, make sure your new boss wants to give you an apprenticeship.
Need a break?

Sometimes life gets in the way of your learning. If you’re not able to work for a while, then you might be able to take a brief break from your apprenticeship, as long as your boss is on board.

“If you take a short break due to injury, then as long as your employer is aware of it and you’re still employed by the same company, it’s not an issue,” says Doug.

“For example, if you’ve hurt your knee playing rugby and you’re on ACC then we’ll say, ‘This person’s not working; they’re still in their apprenticeship, but their employer and ITO recognise they’re not fit for work’. So we can put your apprenticeship on hold until you can work again.”

But remember, you can’t put your apprenticeship on hold forever. You need to talk to your boss and ITO about why you need a break, and make a plan for when you’ll return.

“Apprenticeships can time out,” says Aimee. “Sometimes you can get an extension, but not by much. If you run out of time, you can be charged a fee because it’s almost like you’re signing up for that year of your apprenticeship again. You can’t just put it on hold indefinitely.”

Take away: If you need a break, talk to your employer and ITO and see if they can support your break from work. Just make sure you don’t leave it too long before you come back to your apprenticeship, because the longer you leave it, the more difficult it is to get back into it – plus you might be charged an extra fee.
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‘She’ll be fighting off job offers’

Most people want to be in demand in their career – but how do you get there? Mechanical engineering apprentice Toni Rhind is sure to be sought after once she’s certified, says her boss Eddie Green. But that doesn’t mean the road was easy. In fact, Toni tried several careers before finding the right fit, and had to make the tough call to leave a good job in order to get an apprenticeship.

Apprentice and young mum Toni Rhind will be “fighting off job offers” once she’s certified, reckons her boss.

Eddie Green, who oversees Toni’s work at Pacific Steel in Auckland, was impressed with Toni’s work ethic and motivation from the start.

“Toni’s a role model. Her schoolwork and block course is always up to date. She adds a lot of value to our business and she’s always been outstanding. If she wants help, she’ll put her hand up. Toni is definitely delivering all the time.”

He says Toni will be in high demand when she’s finished her apprenticeship.

“She’s going to have a lot of choices. Whether we hang on to her or not will remain to be seen, but she won’t have to worry about finding somewhere to work.”

Joining forces

Around a year ago, Pacific Steel was looking for a female apprentice to join its mostly male team. But with mechanical engineering traditionally being a male-dominated field, Eddie had difficulty finding the right person.

 

Toni working on machinery at Pacific Steel’s Wire Mill (left) and with her boss, Eddie Green (right).

“We’ve got a big diversity plan, and at that time I was tasked with finding us a female apprentice. But there was hardly anyone around,” says Eddie, who is maintenance superintendent at Pacific Steel’s wire mill and manages the company’s apprenticeship training scheme.

Eventually, Eddie found Toni through Competenz – a partner of MPTT – after she’d approached them looking for an apprenticeship.

“As soon as I met her and talked to her, I knew she was exactly what we’re looking for,” says Eddie. “To be honest, I couldn’t hire her quick enough – I just had to get her on board. And it’s worked out really well.

“She absolutely fit what we were looking for, not just with getting a woman into the trades, but also because of her motivation and her skillset.”

Engineering her success

After having her son at age 16, Toni began looking for a career. But it took a while to find the right fit.

She did the first year of a nursing degree, then switched to sports massage for a few years. She then became a personal trainer and fitness instructor but although it paid the bills, she knew it wasn’t what she wanted to do long-term.

Inspired by her handyman grandfather, Toni decided to look into mechanical engineering.

“I was already quite good with my hands and I liked having a go at fixing things. I knew I couldn’t work in an office.”

Support system

Toni (Ngāpuhi and Tainui) also qualified for an MPTT scholarship that offered financial and practical support.

MPTT trainees like Toni get more than just free course fees. They also get one-on-one mentoring and career advice, as well as help finding work and getting an apprenticeship.

Toni, 26, says this ongoing support was a major reason she chose to join the MPTT programme.

“I’ve noticed a lot of people that go through the pre-trades haven’t had much support going forward with their career. And something I felt really helped me is that I had very strong support from MPTT.”

Toni’s relationship with MPTT started when she was looking at learning a trade. It was then that she met Naomi Tito, MPTT relationship manager at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT).

“When I was looking into my course, Naomi told me about MPTT. She was very friendly and helpful, and gave me a lot of information about what support I could get and where I could continue training after I’d finished at MIT.”

Measurable progress

Toni found her first mechanical engineering job while still doing her pre-trades course at MIT.

With her sights set on getting certified, she asked her boss for an apprenticeship, but eventually had to look at other options.

“I had a job and I thought it would lead to an apprenticeship. But once I’d finished my pre-trades course, it didn’t really look like my boss was going to be able to offer me an apprenticeship. So I found an apprenticeship with another company.”

That company was Pacific Steel. Eddie says he was impressed by Toni’s drive to get certified, particularly because apprentices temporarily get paid less than other employees until they are qualified.

“To walk away from a pretty well-paying job and to take that leap, that couldn’t be easy,” says Eddie. “I did speak to her about the money and how she’d make ends meet but she had a real plan and it was a good plan. I liked how motivated she was and how keen she was to do it.”

Now a year into her three-year apprenticeship, Toni is loving her work.

“I enjoy being challenged all the time. When I go to work, there’s always something different to do each day. My job is to help maintain the machinery at Pacific Steel, like fixing breakdowns to get the production line going again. We do quite a bit of welding and fixing broken equipment.”

For Toni, changing careers was a way to open up her career options and give her more choices in life.

 

One of the things Toni loves about her job is the variety of tasks she gets to tackle — no two days are the same.

“It was about career opportunity. My long-term goal is to become a contractor. I’d like to be my own boss so I can choose my hours and what jobs I work on. Once I finish my apprenticeship, I’ll be looking to get more experience before eventually going out on my own.”

Formula for success

Many parents find it challenging to juggle work and family life. But for Toni, what made it possible was having the support of her whānau.

“I’ve got both my parents around to support me, and my sisters. So it was only when my son was sick or he had a school trip on that I’d try and take some time off work.”

Having support at work is also important to Toni, and she’s found her team at Pacific Steel provides this.

“I work with a supervisor and a number of workers, so there’s always support there. There’s always someone to talk to if you have any problems in the workplace.”

Although mechanical engineering is still a male-dominated field, Toni hasn’t come across difficulties as a woman in this trade.

“Where I’m working, they treat women just like they treat the men. I think sometimes men underestimate women’s ability to do physical jobs, but actually women can do all of those physical things too.”

Eddie is passionate about encouraging women to succeed in the trades, and says some lingering stereotypes are the only problem.

“I’ve been in engineering for around 39 years now, and what I find hard is people who have a job that needs doing and automatically go to one of the males. But why not stop and think and give that job to one of the women? Toni is equally as capable as any of the men we’ve got here now or have ever had.”

Toni encourages other women who are interested in the trades to follow their dreams, and to take advantage of all the help they can get from others along the way.

“Give it a go, and don’t be intimidated because you’ll have a lot of support behind you.”

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Working through hard times

When you see someone succeeding in their career, it’s easy to assume their life has always been great. But 28-year-old engineering apprentice Sherya Hetaraka knows from personal experience that isn’t necessarily true. After losing her dad in 2015, she battled depression and had to learn how to ask for help. Find out how Sherya got through the most difficult time in her life – and worked her way into the trades.

A few years ago, Sherya Hetarata’s life looked good from the outside. She had a great job at Griffins Foods, having worked her way up from packer to second-in-command. She was managing a crew of more than 20 people – despite being one of the youngest on the team.

In reality, she was going through the hardest time of her life. Her father had passed away, meaning Sherya lost her best friend and her strongest source of support at the same time.

Although it was difficult, she eventually sought help by talking to her bosses at Griffins.

“It took me a while, but I opened up with my bosses and they were the ones who helped me into seeing a counsellor. Because I got that help and support, I didn’t need to take time off work.”

Opening up

After seeking help, Sherya was diagnosed with depression and started taking antidepressants. She also had fortnightly visits with her doctor and a counsellor for nearly a year.

“I got peace of mind from the counselling,” she says.

“I’m the kind of person who doesn’t like putting my struggles onto family or friends, because I’m the one who they all come to with their problems. My dad was the only person I went to about everything. So once he had passed it got real difficult.

“But talking about it with a counsellor was a lot easier. I knew they didn’t know me at all, so I felt like they couldn’t judge me.”

Mental health challenges are common in New Zealand, with nearly half of Kiwis experiencing a mental health problem in their lifetime.

If you’re having a difficult time like Sherya was, the most important step is to ask for help.

“Talk about it. It gets easier. Focus on yourself instead of trying to make other people happy. That’s where I think I was depressed quite a bit, because I was too worried about how to fix everyone else’s problems and not my own. Talking about it helps heaps, plus doing something you enjoy.”

If you’re going through a hard time, it’s important to seek help and remember you’re not alone.

“At times it might seem hard and you might think you can’t do it,” says Sherya. “But don’t be shy to ask for help because everyone needs help sometimes.”

Top Trainee, Sherya Hetaraka
Sherya was awarded top trainee for Mechanical Engineering at the MPTT Exit Event held in July 2018.

Choosing the trades

While Sherya was working on her mental health, she was also thinking about a career change.

“I had a good job but it wasn’t something I could see myself doing for another 10 years. I started thinking about what I wanted to accomplish in my life and how I could make my dad proud.”

Sherya, whose iwi is Te Arawa and Ngāti Kahu, took time to think the decision through and spoke to her boss about the potential career change.

“I was stuck between engineering and social work. I’ve always wanted to help others, especially kids – mainly troubled youth with very tough backgrounds. I wanted them to know that someone cares and that things aren’t always gonna be hard.

“So I sat down with my boss. His wife was a social worker so they had done a lot of youth activities, youth camps and helping out the homeless. He explained that it’s one of the hardest jobs you can have. You need a strong heart that cannot be broken so easily due to the fact you can’t get emotionally involved.

“Hearing everything he said, I knew mentally it would take a toll on me because seeing struggling kids breaks my heart.”

Sherya had dabbled in engineering at Griffins, and the support she received from engineers in her team convinced her the trades was the right path.

“A lot of the engineers helped me out and I learned how to fix my own problems on the machines. Engineering was something I thought I might enjoy doing as a job.”

“I like taking things apart and putting them back together. I’ve always been like that. The job is exactly what I used to do when I was a kid – take things apart, put them back together. Only now it’s more extreme.”

In 2017, she handed in her resignation and began studying Mechanical Engineering Level 3 at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT).

Giving back

While studying engineering, Sherya discovered that trades skills are a great way to give back to the community. She joined a volunteer project organised by MPTT, where she and other trainees did some mahi for RāWiri Community House in Manurewa.

“Our project was to restore their community vege garden that was destroyed from a car driving through their fence and straight over their vege garden boxes. We weeded all the planter boxes, trimmed back all the harakeke around the community house, fixed all the planter boxes, painted the fence and replanted all the veggies.”

For Sherya, the best part was meeting the workers at the community house.

“They are amazing at what they do. These ladies do a lot of mahi for our homeless. They bathe them, feed them and care for them every week. Being a part of the project was one of the best experiences I’ve had since I started studying.”

Having finished her pre-trades course, Sherya has now been awarded a valuable three-year engineering apprenticeship at Griffins and is on her way to getting qualified.

 

Where to get help
Your doctor

If you think you need help, a good place to start is with your GP. They can assess you, help you make a plan for your treatment, and connect you with mental health professionals like a counsellor or psychologist.

 

Helplines

Helplines mean you can kōrero with a trained person over the phone for free. You can talk about how you’re feeling, or what to do if you know someone who may need help.
Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor

  • Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP)
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
  • Healthline – 0800 611 116
  • Samaritans – 0800 726 666
  • Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz

 

Websites that can help
  • SPARX.org.nz – an online e-therapy tool provided by the University of Auckland that helps young people learn skills to deal with feeling down, depressed or stressed
  • www.depression.org.nz – includes The Journal online help service
  • The Lowdown is a website to help young New Zealanders understand depression and anxiety from their own perspective.

 

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
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Engineering his future

Junior at work
Sometimes the path to a trades career isn’t a straight line. After trying his hand at automotive, switching to welding and spending months looking for work in Taranaki, Junior Mehau is now powering through an engineering apprenticeship thanks to his ambition, work ethic, and drawing on his networks in the trades.

One of the first things you’ll notice when you meet apprentice Junior Mehau is his ambition, reckons Marty Mitchell from Fairbrother Industries.

“Junior’s what you’d call a go-getter. He wants to be thought of as the number-one guy,” says Marty, who is the production manager and Junior’s boss.

“He sees what everyone else is doing and tries to do that little bit better – he’s quite competitive like that. And of course, when you’ve got a guy like that, no-one wants to be left behind, so he tends to motivate the whole team.”

Straight away, Junior made it clear he was looking to move up in his career, says Marty.

“The first time I met him he came up and said, ‘Hi, I’m Junior, what do I need to do to become the foreman here?’

“I said, ‘Well, it’s really simple. First you’ve got to finish your apprenticeship, and second you’ve got to be the guy everyone wants on the team.’ And he’s been responsive to that – he’s pretty sharp.”

Changing lanes

But the road to an apprenticeship has involved a few detours for Junior. In fact, the first trade that grabbed his interest wasn’t engineering, it was his hobby – automotive.

“I like cars and I’m good with my hands,” says Junior. “I thought it would be a move in the right direction.”

He spent a few years tuning up his automotive skills, and with his dad being from Manihiki in the Cook Islands and his mum from Suva in Fiji, he qualified for an MPTT scholarship.

But with a taste of what life on the job would be like, Junior decided he wanted to keep his work with cars as a relaxing hobby, not his livelihood.

“I realised if I want to do stuff to my own cars, then I don’t really want to be doing that as a job.”

Marty says experiences like Junior’s aren’t wasted, since they all help develop the skills needed to build a career in the trades.

“Other mechanical style trades, such as automotive, are all about a logical approach to maintenance that’s very similar to engineering. Plus any trades training you do has key literacy and numeracy parts to it, which reinforces the basic building blocks that everyone needs to have.

“The process also forces you to take a disciplined approach to what you’re doing, and young people often need that. So by doing other trades and having other experiences, it all works towards Junior being better at what he does.

“All those skills are building blocks towards a bigger whole. Any time you can fill in some of those blocks outside of your immediate situation, it’s immensely beneficial.”

Joining forces

The 26-year-old later studied welding, and after enjoying the work and gaining some on-the-job experience, Junior discovered he wanted to focus his efforts on the engineering trade.

Although his focus changed as he progressed through the trades, MPTT was there to offer support and practical help throughout. Even when Junior left Auckland, having lined up a potential engineering job in Taranaki, MPTT project manager Kirk Sargent connected him with Taranaki Futures – an organisation that offers similar services to MPTT.

Staying in touch with MPTT
MPTT Auckland Project Manager Kirk Sargent called into see Junior and Scarlet as part of his visit to New Plymouth to meet with Taranaki Futures

When the opportunity in Taranaki didn’t pan out as expected, Junior eventually returned to Auckland.

“I was wanting to go into the gas and oil industry. I was sort of promised a job from an engineering company but when I got there, they said the work was dropping off so they couldn’t take me on.”

With Junior back in Auckland, MPTT connected him with Iani Nemani at industry training organisation Competenz – one of MPTT’s partners. With help from Iani, Junior eventually found an engineering job making farm equipment for Fairbrother Industries in Auckland.

“I still do a lot of welding, because I build the bases for our machines,” says Junior. “I also like that I get to do new stuff and learn new things on the job.”

He’s now two years into an apprenticeship that covers the full spectrum of engineering, including mechanical engineering, maintenance, fabrication, welding and machining.

Marty says while Junior is learning all aspects of engineering, his personality does favour larger projects where the impact of his work is more clear.

“To me he seems more focused on the fabrication and welding side because it fits with his personality. He can build a big thing and look at it and see his accomplishment. But on the machining side you’re only making a small part of a bigger thing, so I don’t believe he’d get the same amount of satisfaction out of that.

“I think he likes taking a big pile of metal and making it into something worthwhile.”

Junior Mehau is proud of his engineering work
Junior Mehau with some of the agricultural equipment he helped to build in his current job at Fairbrother Industries

Taking the lead

With his drive to excel on the job, it’s not surprising that Junior has big plans for the future.

“I want to own my own business one day and do my own thing – to put my little two cents into the engineering world.”

With a wife and two-year-old daughter, supporting his family is a big motivation for Junior.

“I want to move up in my career to get us a better life, and they think that’s awesome.”

Marty says Junior is well on his way to achieving his goals for the future.

“The first part of becoming a leader is you’ve got to want to be one. You’ve got to want to be able to improve the people working with you. By wanting that, Junior’s already sort of halfway there.

“To be a leader in engineering you’ve got to know engineering as well – it’s impossible to be an apprentice and also be the foreman. But once Junior’s finished his apprenticeship, that means he’s got all the knowledge he needs.”

Junior encourages those who are thinking about learning a trade to step up and take action.

“Don’t be scared, just go for it – anything’s possible. You’ve got to take the step and go for what you want, because you’re not going to get it if you just sit back and wait for it.”

Employer Spotlight: Fairbrother Industries

This year marks 40 years in business for Fairbrother Industries, which specialises in manufacturing industry-leading farming equipment such as post drivers. Production manager Marty Mitchell says apprentices are a crucial part of the team. “We’ve always offered apprenticeships and have had a number of Māori and Pasifika apprentices over the years. We currently have two apprentices on the books and are always open to more – we’re always looking for the next bunch of leaders to come through.”

Competenz

Competenz is an Industry Training Organisation (ITO) and apprenticeship provider. Like other ITOs, Competenz develops national trades qualifications and helps make sure the industry has a continuous supply of skilled workers to grow New Zealand businesses. Iani Nemani, trades career advisor, Pasifika, says Competenz is always happy to help trainees find work in their trade. “One way of supporting industry is to connect young people like Junior with employers and industry training, ensuring they have the opportunity to earn while they learn and become qualified without the fuss.”

What you can learn from Junior
  • Want to impress your new boss? Ask them for advice on how you can achieve your career goals. This shows your ambition and enthusiasm for your trade, which are traits employers are always looking for. Plus, it lets your boss know what you want for your future (such as an apprenticeship or management position) which means they’re better able to help you get there.
  • Worried you might choose the wrong career? Iani Nemani from Competenz says the key is to give something a go, like Junior. “Choosing a career is big business. In Junior’s case, he did the right thing – he tried a few things out before finally choosing what he’s most passionate about. At the end of the day, the most important thing for young people is to start something, and then as Junior did, settle on the career that you’re most interested in.”
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Trainees prove their mettle

Three newly-qualified welding and fabrication students have found full-time employment at D&H Steel thanks to their hard work – and help from their MPTT navigator.

Robert Rudolph, Valusaga Iopu and Atanasia Galiga were offered jobs at D&H Steel after demonstrating their work readiness skills through unpaid work experience during the last few months of their course.

Work experience is a great way to get to know potential employers and show you’re ready to be hired. Although it’s usually unpaid, you’ll get valuable experience to add to your CV – or even better, a job offer at the end of it.

Well connected

It’s tough finding work when you’re just starting out and have no contacts in the industry. That’s why the MPTT programme ensures trainees aren’t doing it alone.

Each trainee has a navigator who’s there to offer advice, mentoring, and help finding employment.

MPTT navigator Tu Nu’uali’itia, from Oceania Career Academy, took a small group of trainees along to West Auckland company D&H Steel so they could see what life on the job would be like.

“We all met and travelled out together,” says Tu. “I prepared them beforehand, such as making sure they were ready to ask questions about the work and apprenticeships.”

The visit turned into an informal job interview, with D&H Steel offering the trainees valuable work experience.

“The guy showing them around got an inkling that these are quality guys, so he said yep, you can start working here. He said, ‘You won’t get paid and it’s 10-hour days, but if you want to be here you can come.’ All the trainees signed up.”

Robert, Valusaga and Atanasia made time to do one or two days of work experience each week for the last three months of their course.

Showing spark

Work experience is a great way for trainees to show an employer they’re ready to work and have a positive attitude.

“It makes it easier to get the job,” says Valusaga, aged 29. “The boss knows you’re a hard worker and can see you’re keen.”

The trainees quickly impressed their future boss with their enthusiasm and willingness to work, says Tu.

“They just wanted to get out there and work, and even took on some night shifts to check it out.

“Because of their attitude, the boss was very happy. He said, ‘These guys you gave us are amazing – they’ve showed their colours and commitment and I’m happy to offer them jobs’. He could see they were work-ready so he picked them up.”

Work experience is one way to show your value as an employee and get started in a trade, and the hard work can lead to much bigger things, says Tu.

“These trainees have families and they’re working really hard to do something big. So they bought into the idea of personal sacrifice. They’re driving their own futures and will one day be able to get qualified and start their own businesses.”

Amped to work

Valusaga, who is now working full-time at D&H Steel, had been working at a general engineering company as a labour hand. When he heard about the MPTT scholarship, he decided to gain his New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering.

He stopped working while he was studying, which became more difficult when he and his wife had a baby on the way – a daughter now age 5. But Valusaga saw the value in doing work experience to build his skills, get to know a potential employer, and get his foot in the door.

“I saw the environment at D&H Steel was really good. They’re really friendly and the manager, Cameron, was real good to us.”

Valusaga – whose mother is from Saleimoa on the Samoan island of Upolu and his father from Sale’aula on the island of Savai’i – now has his sights set on an apprenticeship, which he is due to discuss with his new boss after three to six months of full-time work.

Valusaga Iopu
Valusaga Iopu with his wife and daughter

“It worked out well,” says Tu. “They’re starting jobs and will eventually move into apprenticeships.”

Ongoing support

Even now that they’ve earned full-time jobs, these hard-working trainees will continue to be coached by Tu. This will help them to continue to advance in their careers.

“That’s the beauty of navigation,” says Tu. “Because we build trusting relationships with the trainees, we can actually see their shortcomings. So we can always be telling them the areas they need to improve and we can speak that into them.

“We look at the person, not necessarily the skills. Hopefully if they’ve got a dream and a goal, we just encourage them to keep aspiring to that.”

He says the trainees have put in the hard yards and are now reaping the benefits – and as a navigator, he’ll continue to offer his support.

“I just want to encourage them that they can do it and I think that’s where the navigation comes in. Our role is to keep telling them they can do this. Then they know they’re supported so if they fall over, they know there’s someone there to help them back up.”

D&H Steel workers
Cameron Rogers (D&H Steel) second left, with MPTT trainees from left, Robert Rudolph, Valusaga Iopu and Atanasia Galiga – at D&H Steel’s facility in Henderson

 

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Trainees rebuild garden after car crash

community project in south auckland
A much-loved community garden that was destroyed by a rogue vehicle has been restored, thanks to a group of MPTT trainees.

RāWiri Community House provides services to the Manurewa community including free drivers licence theory courses, helping people search for jobs and working with homeless people in the area.

Earlier this year, the gardens at the centre were damaged when a car went through the front fence.

Eight MPTT trainees from Manukau Institute of Technology got stuck in to help and made the project their own – with some even making artwork for the fence around the garden.

At MPTT, we encourage all our trainees to get involved with community projects. Not only is it a chance to use their skills – and learn new ones – it adds meaning to their mahi by giving back to the community.

Read more about the RāWiri project on the Stuff website.

Iani Nemani of Competenz
Iani Nemani from Competenz who helped setup this community project

Louisa Wall at Rāwiri Community House
Louisa Wall with Kirk Sargent at Rāwiri Community House

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