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.
Approximately 20 NZMA Construction students were warmly welcomed onto the Marae at Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, with a traditional pōwhiri to signal the beginning of a vocational and spiritual journey. Fifteen of the participating students are recipients of the Māori and Pasifika Trades Training: Auckland (MPTT Auckland) scholarships offered by NZMA, who has recently become a member of the MPTT Auckland consortia*.
The students will be working at the marae one day a week, to put into practice the skills they are learning during their Certificate in Building Level 4 programme at NZMA. Students started the 20 week programme on 28 August, which sets them up to enter the construction industry as an apprentice or entry-level employee.
Wyllis Maihi, Chairperson of Komiti Marae Ōrākei Trust says that the building projects that students will be embarking on at the Ōrākei Marae site will provide them with valuable hands-on practical experience, where they will have the opportunity to transform an old villa into a fully functioning multiple learning space, as well as perform reinforcement work on the Wharenui.
NZMA Senior Tutor, Aaron Reid will supervise and keep a watchful eye on the young men and women, alongside Ōrākei marae tradespeople, who will act as mentors to the young tradies for the duration of the joint venture.
It was the first time on a marae for NZMA student Nita Tuiaki, 24. He said, “This is really special, it’s cool and a good experience. I’m looking forward to understanding the Māori culture, and this will be a highlight of my course.”
NZMA staff and students were warmly embraced by the Ngāti Whātua whanau at the marae. Matt Maihi, Ōrākei Marae Manager, explained the significance of the 700 year old site, and how the city grew around it. He also reinforced the respect for the land, water and air, and reminded students to be respectful when handling the materials they would be using.
NZMA Regional Manager, Monique Le Marque said, “We are thrilled to be working with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei iwi. Gaining the hands-on experience in building, which the project offers, is integral to our students educational experience. However, equally important is the spiritual understanding of their connection to the past whether Māori, Pasifika or any other ethnicity! The historical and cultural knowledge which Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei will impart to students will serve to enrich their knowledge, and will be a significant factor in these students becoming highly contributing citizens of New Zealand’s future workforce.”
NZMA will be monitoring the progress of the villa, and our next update will be when students are on the Ōrākai marae site, beginning the transformation.
NZMA
We teach real skills for today’s professions. Across seven campuses nationwide we deliver employment-focused vocational training to 3500 students each year in the fields of hospitality, cookery, business, retail, contact centre, trades, sports, early childhood education and health.
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.
Waru Pairama started his trades training by enrolling in a construction course. But having already worked in other industries, he quickly realised he was ready for employment in the trades. Here’s how Waru turned his organisational skills and proactive attitude into an apprenticeship, and how he plans to give back to his whānau and community.
For Waru Pairama, becoming a builder is about much more than just earning a living. The 21-year-old apprentice has a vision to make a difference in his community, especially among the youth.
“In the future, I’d like to give back to my iwi and my community. You see a lot of young people now not going down the right track, getting into drugs, gangs, that kind of thing. I’d like to be an example for them, whether it’s going into schools or to a marae. I want to show them what you can achieve by learning a trade,” says Waru.
“I also want to give back to all my whānau that have been involved in my life and show that all the time and support they put into me wasn’t a waste. I’ll make them proud through my mahi.”
Ticking the boxes
Waru, whose iwi includes Ngāti Maniapoto, Tainui and Ngāti Whātua, had spent six years in Australia playing rugby league and working odd jobs. He returned home to Aotearoa in late 2016 to be closer to his whānau and focus on his career.
Waru is awarded his MPTT scholarship early in 2017
In February this year he began a Certificate in Construction Trades – Carpentry Level 3 at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT), and was awarded an MPTT scholarship. Early on in his course, Waru attended an MPTT event where he found out about the possibility of getting an apprenticeship – a job that includes the training required for a qualification.
By having solid work readiness skills, he managed to land an apprenticeship after just a few months.
“I think it was just, you know, being organised. I had my drivers licence, I had a car, I had good references – my manager and rugby league coach backed me and said I had a good attitude. It was about ticking all the boxes.”
Aiming high
MIT relationship manager Naomi Tito says she wasn’t surprised when Waru quickly found employment.
“He was extremely proactive in moving forward and securing an apprenticeship, and as a result was offered full-time employment with KB Construction. Within a month, the company offered him an apprenticeship.
“What impressed me with Waru is that he knows what his goals are. He is an example for his family and for many of his fellow students.”
Waru is currently focused on getting qualified through his apprenticeship, which is being managed by BCITO and is expected to be completed by 2020.
As well as working on his construction skills, Waru also attends Te Reo classes two nights a week. “I’m enjoying learning, and progressing slowly. It’s about getting back in touch with my Tikanga Māori.”
Hands-on experience
Waru says his upbringing showed him what hard work is all about, and he’s always enjoyed being outdoors.
“Growing up in New Zealand, I was on the marae around my whānau in the kitchen seeing them doing the mahi. That gave me an insight into practical hands-on mahi.
“Now that I’m working in construction, I love it. The senior builders really take the time to sit me down and run me through things. It’s fun being on the tools.”
He says having his fees paid for by MPTT, as well as support with finding employment, has been a huge help.
“It kicked me off really – MPTT was my support base. Naomi has been awesome. She helped me work out what direction I wanted to go to in terms of learning a trade. I didn’t really know what I needed to do, or what would put me in the best position to get the opportunity.”
Want to dominate in your trade and earn respect from others? Staying away from drugs and alcohol while you’re on the job will help you build your skills, perform at your best and impress your boss.
Trades workers need to be focused and safety-conscious. You’ll be working with power tools and machinery, solving problems that need attention to detail, and you might need to climb ladders or scaffolding. So to be ready for work, you need to be drug-free. Drug and alcohol awareness is part of learning how to work safely on-site.
Why it matters
Most trades employers do drug and alcohol tests as part of their site safety practices. You’ll need to be able to pass these tests when you’re looking for a job, as well as ongoing tests that your employer might do. MPTT Navigator Tu Nu’uali’itia says these tests are now a prerequisite for securing employment. “The legal ramifications and the health and safety of the staff involved in the business are their most important priorities.”
It’s not just your career on the line. Making sure you’re sober at work is about keeping yourself and others safe.
Staying away from drugs and alcohol helps you stay fit and strong, both physically and mentally. You’ll be at your best and feel more motivated, which means you can do your best work on the job.
Drugs and alcohol are expensive – so by staying clean, you’ll have more spare cash.
What to do
As an MPTT trainee, our Navigators will work closely with you to help you get ready for work. As part of this, they’ll talk to you about drug and alcohol awareness.
“We make sure trainees understand the impact of drugs and alcohol on their career aspirations and the safety of others, as well as the negative health consequences,” says Tu. “We also give testimonies of employers’ experiences and provide information about support services.”
You can expect to be drug tested if you work in the trades – it’s now a routine part of health and safety – so you’ll need to be prepared, says Tu.
“If needed, we can provide pre-employment drug testing so students experience the process of testing and can address the reality of the choices they make having a direct impact on their job prospects.”
When you take the test, make sure you declare any medication you take, whether it’s prescribed by your doctor or an over-the-counter formula, because some medications can impact your test results.
Remember, drugs can take days, weeks or even months to leave your system (depending on the type of drug and level of use), so the best way to stay safe and achieve your career goals is to to avoid these substances. Most importantly, stay away from drugs and alcohol while you’re working, and be careful about what you do the night before – showing up to work hung over isn’t a good look, and can affect your ability to work safely.
If you are going to have a big night out, make it a Friday or Saturday so you’re alcohol free on Monday, and stay off the drugs – they’ll generally stay in your system much longer.
If you think you might need help to stay away from drugs or alcohol, there’s lots of support out there. Talk to one of our Navigators about how you can get started, or check out the services below.
Alcohol Drug Helpline
This helpline offers you free, confidential information and support over the phone. They can help you with any issue or question you have about your own or someone else’s drinking or drug taking. Call them on 0800 787 797.
Community Alcohol and Drug Services
This drug and alcohol counselling service is free for Māori and Pasifika in Auckland. Visit their website to find out about their support groups, counselling and consultation options.
Jerome Ramsay started out as a labourer, before deciding to get more skills under his belt through a trades qualification.
With help from MPTT Navigators, Jerome made contacts in the construction industry and found an apprenticeship. His hard work is paying off. Last year, Jerome was awarded the Carpentry Student of the Year award and is well on his way to being qualified.
“It’s a snowball effect – once you’re in a good place where you’re showing up to work every day, it boosts your confidence.”
Jerome Ramsay has made some big life changes to build his future in the trades. He shares his story in this video.
Video Transcript: Jerome: I was labouring here and there and I never really thought about getting a qualification under my belt. I decided if I really wanted to make it in life, there were a few bad habits I had to kick. A few skills I had to learn.
A key moment was enrolling in Unitec, I didn’t know what was in store for me. It was a wonderful experience for me. I wouldn’t change it for the world.
I got the 2016 Carpentry Student of the Year Award, which was a big honour for me, I worked hard for it. I turned up on site early, always packing up gear.
They gave us a directional pathway and did a lot of networking for me, I got to meet a lot of good contacts in the construction industry. In terms of employment it gave me a really good head start.
I’m a registered apprentice, so I am getting my practical out of the way. I hopefully will be qualified within a couple of years. I work for Ingrown Construction, a small company but they are very thorough. Rick is a good fellow, he likes his work done fast and proper.
Rick (Employer): I think the first day I met him (Jerome), I said, “We start at 7am.” He said, “That’s brilliant, I’ll beat you hear every day”.
Its good. Jerome’s keen to learn, keen to know, that’s all you need really, the want, the drive.
Jerome: In terms of employment, (you need) the right attitude when approaching work. Things like work readiness, they’re just small but necessary steps.
You have to be drug-free. You can’t turn up to site hungover from the night before, it’s not a very professional outlook. You know you have to be functional onsite.
It’s like a snow-ball effect. Once you’re in a good place where you’re showing up to work every day, it boosts your confidence and you really want to get stuck in and become more dedicated than you were before.
Unitec and Māori and Pasifika Trades Training provided me the skills and resources for me to achieve throughout my academic studies.
You’ve got to want it, that’s the only way to succeed, you either want it or you don’t.
I’m out there every day, doing what I do.
A driver licence is crucial in the trades. Your boss might ask you to pick up supplies for a job, or you may need to travel between different work sites during the day.
If you don’t have your licence yet, it’s the number one thing you can do while you’re training to help you get a job later. When you’re just starting out, a restricted licence is fine for many jobs. If you already have your restricted licence, getting your full licence will make you even more valuable to an employer.
Remember, your MPTT navigator is there to help you get ready for working life – and that includes support to get your licence. They’ll be able to give you advice and point you in the right direction for your situation. Other support may also be available to some trainees, including free driving lessons and financial help to get your licence. Get in touch with your navigator to see how they can help.
How to get your learner licence
Start by learning the road rules. First, grab a copy of the Road Code – ask your friends and whānau if they have one you could borrow, check with your local library, or get a new copy.
Reading the Road Code is a good start, but you’ll need do practice tests to help you nail the real thing. You can find tests online, or check out drive.govt.nz to find out how much of the Road Code you know.
There are apps to help you practice your theory test. Check out NZ Driving Theory Test, which costs $6 and lets you practice tests that are just like the real thing.
While you’re learning to drive, offer to take someone with a full licence to places they need to go – like driving your mum to the supermarket. The more time you spend behind the wheel, the faster your skills and confidence will grow.
Let’s Get Legal NZ is New Zealand’s only restricted and full driving licence app. It will show you what you need to know to pass the test, so you’ll understand what the testing officer will be looking for.
Talk to your MPTT navigator to see how they can help.
Owning a car
Once you have your restricted licence, you can drive a car on your own.
If you need help financing your first car to help you travel to work, you might be able to get an interest-free loan through Ngā Tangata Microfinance Trust.
Already have your own car? If possible, carpool to work with someone else. You’ll save money on petrol and have someone to talk to on your way to work – and it’s better for the environment as well.
Need help getting your driver licence? Ask your MPTT navigator for advice.
Jason Lemalu had “grown up bills” to pay and couldn’t afford to have his income drop by going back to study construction. But thanks to some persistence, he secured an apprenticeship where he can learn on the job.
Many tradies start their career with formal training through polytechnic – but that route isn’t for everyone.
Instead of spending a year or two learning the basics of building before looking for employment, Jason Lemalu needed to go straight into an apprenticeship and learn on the job.
The 28-year-old couldn’t afford to have his income drop by going back to study.
“I’d spent about eight years as a personal trainer and I loved it but I no longer saw a future in it for me. I saw multiple opportunities in the building industry and decided that’s what I was going to do,” Jason explains.
“I wanted to do the theory and training but the loss of income was a problem because I’ve got grown-up bills to pay now.”
So he began approaching employers directly to ask for an apprenticeship – a job that includes training towards his building qualification.
He got his foot in the door with a recladding company in Auckland – “just laboring, getting my head around the building industry” – but then moved to New Plymouth when his partner landed her first job out of law school at a New Plymouth firm.
“When I got there, I tidied up my CV, confirmed references then went door knocking to find work,” says Jason.
“I visited offices and rang around everywhere else and got turned down every time. But I persisted and sent them my CV anyway and a couple of the bigger companies got back to me, impressed with my approach.”
One of those bigger companies was Clelands Construction, who last December offered Jason a temporary labouring contract.
“I went and met with a few of the directors the next morning and when I came in later that afternoon to get my contract, they said they had a good feeling about me and they decided to slot me straight into an apprenticeship. I was stoked as! It’s exactly what I was after.”
Getting support
Jason’s apprenticeship is being managed by BCITO and his first year of apprenticeship fees have been covered by a pilot programme managed by MPTT Auckland.
Kirk Sargent, MPTT Auckland project manager, says the trial programme is now full while trainees like Jason are monitored to see how they benefit from the scheme’s support.
“Jason is part of a pilot programme where trainees can access the same support as our other scholars, including mentoring and a $1000 tools grant, without needing to take time out of employment. It’s an ideal option for trainees who’ve demonstrated they’re ready to start their career directly with an employer, but may need some additional support to be successful.”
Kirk says taking the direct route – skipping a course and going straight into an apprenticeship – is not right for most trainees, but it was the most efficient way for Jason to reach his goals.
Jason, who is Samoan, qualified for the pilot programme because he’d shown he was ready for work but also faced the challenge of changing careers. That meant he’d benefit from the scheme’s extra support.
Trainees are much more likely to succeed if they have support from people who know the industry, says Kirk.
“Starting an apprenticeship has an impact on your work and home life. Those transitions aren’t always easy. No matter what pathway a trainee takes into the trades, it’s crucial they’re supported to reduce the risks, both for the trainees and for employers.”
Hard work pays off
Now a few months into the job, Jason says he couldn’t be happier.
“I’m loving it. Clelands have got me on one of their biggest jobs and I’m looked after really well. I’m stoked.”
He strongly encourages others looking for a job to get out there and meet potential employers in person.
“Put your hand up and show employers there’s a reason to hire you even if jobs aren’t advertised. Instead of just sending in a CV and joining the long queue of people doing the same thing, go and meet them face-to-face. That’s not easy but they respect it in the end.”
MPTT Auckland hopes the pilot scheme will eventually become a fully-funded programme so more of the right trainees can benefit from its support while continuing to work, says Kirk.
“It provides an alternative, flexible pathway for the right people, reducing risks for employers and trainees. It also supports our goal of delivering a skilled workforce for employers and sustainable careers for trainees.”
Although the pilot programme is full, there are still scholarships available to help you learn a trade for free. If you’re Māori or Pasifika and aged 16-40, find out more here
Chris Lautua had a stable, well-paid office job – but he wanted to do hands-on, physically active work. He retrained as a sparky and is now well on the way to a career that ticks all the boxes.
As a child, Chris Lautua dreamed of working with technology.
But having been steered towards doing a communications degree by his high school teachers, it wasn’t until last year that the 29-year-old finally made the leap and started training to be an electrician
“The thought of sitting in an office just wasn’t me. I like practical work – being active, moving around, not being in the same place every day. And I always had the picture of being my own boss.”
Chris, whose mother is from Niue and his father from Samoa, signed up to train at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) with a scholarship from Māori and Pasifika Trades Training.
Hands-on experience
His hard work is already paying off. With help from the team at Ara, Chris recently secured an apprenticeship at Dickson Gray Electrical in Auckland while he finishes his study part-time.
The apprenticeship will be 6000 hours, which will take around three years.
Now well on his way to becoming qualified, Chris encourages others to consider learning a trade.
“It can be hard to take that first step, and to take the risk. But if you have even the slightest idea that you might enjoy being in a trade, I’d say do find out a bit more. Ask questions about how it can suit your lifestyle.”
He points out that he was still able to work while studying full-time last year in order to pay his living costs and rent for the flat he shares with friends, because he didn’t have classes every day.
“I know a lot of people who are scared to commit to something full time, but they don’t realise full-time trades study doesn’t take up every day of the week.”
‘There’s no harm in asking’
Chris also recommends looking for work experience while training.
Last year, to give himself the best chance of eventually getting an apprenticeship, Chris found a local electrician who was willing to let him help out with a few jobs.
“If you live in New Zealand it’s quite easy to find someone who knows a tradesperson you can approach – I found one through a friend of a friend.
“There’s no harm in asking; the worst-case scenario is they’re going to say no. But you can be prepared for a no. You just gotta keep asking, and someone will say yes.”
Chris believes having that experience in the field helped him stand out during the job interview process, and he was soon offered his apprenticeship at Dickson Gray Electrical.
“So far it’s been awesome. Every day is different. The only challenge is trying to remember stuff, because it’s different every day. If you learn about something and you don’t do it straight away, you kind of forget.”
Having taken steps to achieve his childhood dream, Chris says he especially loves the problem-solving aspects of the job, and the variety that comes with working in a trade.
“Plus, out of all my friends there was a sparky that was missing – everything else was covered.”
After years of working at a desk, Fou Fale left his office job to follow his passion and become a chef.
Three years ago, Fou Fale was stuck behind a desk shuffling paperwork at an inner-city telecommunications company.
He’d been in and out of jobs for years, often struggling to pay bills and provide for his wife and three young children.
“I was trying to find that sense of thriving in my life – but I lacked it,” says the 29-year-old Samoan.
His true passion, cooking, had been simmering under the surface for years.
“I’m one of seven siblings and I was always the family cook. Every time we had get-togethers I’d try to make fancy dinners out of corned beef, chicken backs, chop suey and taro!”
Growing confidence
When someone told him about Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT), the possibility of training as a chef for free seemed too good to be true.
“I thought it would be awesome because it would take the financial pressure off, not having to pay back a massive student loan. But I didn’t think I was entitled.”
Fou’s wife, Katerina, says her husband faced a major confidence hurdle applying for the course.
“He thought he really was not good enough for it. Like, ‘I’m just a Samoan boy, they’re not going to give me that’.”
Encouraged by his family and pastor, Fou stepped out and applied.
“When I got in I was like ‘Wow, my first scholarship ever!’ It made me feel kind of special,” he recalls.
“I saw it as a sign and thought ‘I’m not going to go half-hearted; I’m going to give it my all’.”
Stepping up
Fou has excelled during his Certificate in Cookery (Level 3 and 4), shining as an inspiring and talented young leader at Manukau Institute of Technology.
In fact, his 30 classmates picked Fou to be their Head Chef for the final semester.
“It’s pretty full-on juggling my training, kids and this new responsibility as Head Chef, but it’s been awesome and I’m looking forward to growing my cooking and leadership skills.”
Living the dream
Fou says MPTT gave him an opportunity to chase something he’s dreamt about for a long time.
Now, as he nears graduation, Fou says his dream is to run his own catering business.
“That’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time but I needed to get the qualification first.”
He still loves cooking traditional Pacific Island food, but has given his old childhood favourites a new twist.
“I still cook those same things but I’ve modernised them, making the dishes as presentable and healthy as possible. That’s where I’m heading now – making healthy recipes and meals for our people.”
Fou is also driven to help young people in his church.
“Some of those kids have no sense of direction and I tell them there’s help out there that’s free, and there are people who are willing to sacrifice their time to make your future better – not just for you but also for your kids.”
Armed with new skills and new hope for the future, Fou’s vision is to see other young Pasifika and Māori take hold of the opportunities presented by MPTT.
“If we can inspire as many of our Pacific Island and Māori people to take up this programme, that’s my goal. Everyone’s given the same opportunities but it’s up to them to make something out of it.”
After 10 years as a labourer, Doug Graham decided to turn his practical experience into a qualification – and an exciting career.
Doug Graham always knew he wanted to run his own business and help young people coming out of school.
But despite having more than 10 years’ experience as a labourer, he had no qualifications and no way of getting ahead in the building industry.
Making it official
Doug decided to bite the bullet and enrolled at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) to study part-time for a National Certificate in Carpentry (Level 4) while working.
It took him three years, but he graduated with pride last year.
Having a qualification means he’s been able to take on greater responsibility in his work for his employer.
“I’m more confident now and within another year I’ll be able to build houses on my own. Before I got qualified, I was just doing general stuff – labouring and pretty much just being a hammer hand.”
To cover tuition fees for the final two years of his studies, Doug was given a scholarship from Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT).
“It really helped me on my journey. At the time I was struggling a bit with bills and stuff and when I got the help, it took a lot of weight off my shoulders. MPTT giving out scholarships to Māori and Pasifika is great because so many people like myself need it.”
A new direction
Doug’s only regret is waiting so long to pursue a building qualification. He wishes he’d applied straight after leaving school.
“I had no direction whatsoever. I pretty much just fell into a job. I should have got in there [to study with MIT] when I was younger,” he says.
“Don’t be a labourer your whole life; think big and go for it. My goal has always been to own my own business and train all these young people out of school. I think within another four to five years that will happen.”
His advice to others considering a career in the building industry?
“The more knowledge you get now, the more time you have ahead to gain skills as well. Anybody can do it. With building the sky is the limit.”
A unique part of the MPTT programme is our navigators, who mentor students every step of the way and help ensure they’re ready for work. After a year of working with our trainees, navigator Awhina Kanohi shares her insights and explains more about the role.
Awhina Kanohi is on a mission to help young people build satisfying careers in the trades.
While working for Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei she has honed a passion for helping Māori find sustainable work with supportive employers. In her role as an MPTT navigator, she helps link trainees with solid career opportunities in their chosen trade.
“Unfortunately some of our whānau have been collateral damage. They get brought on as casual workers and are not really given opportunities to become a permanent staff member with additional perks. They go into that cycle of casual work, and that’s not a nice environment for anyone – it’s not stable at all.”
That’s why Awhina wants to see more trainees join the MPTT programme, to help them gain a qualification and develop the right skills for work – from communicating with employers to getting their CV in order.
Aiming high
A major goal of MPTT is to nurture more Māori and Pasifika into leadership positions, such as supervisors or business owners.
“It’s about increasing their quality of life, because we know when that happens the whole family is advantaged.”
Awhina sees the navigator role as a link between different groups in the programme – the trainees, polytechnics, employers, and MPTT.
In particular, she’s focused on making changes within training organisations to make it easier for students to later find work.
“If the students aren’t coming out of the programme ready for work, that tells me there’s something wrong internally. So I look at what the existing systems are, and what we might be missing.
Providing support
Navigators also act as mentors, working closely with trainees as they journey towards becoming qualified.
Awhina meets students one-on-one and holds ‘work-ready workshops’ at polytechnics, where she identifies anything that might prevent trainees from gaining employment, and helps them make plans to address these obstacles.
At these workshops, trainees who meet the criteria are given MPTT’s ‘Work Readiness Passport’ – a stamp of approval from the navigator that a trainee not only knows their trade, but also has the personal and worksite skills required to make it on the job.
“I look at their work readiness from the get-go and identify barriers to employment straight away. And then when I talk with them one-on-one, I’ll highlight those things and ask questions like, ‘When were you thinking of getting your drivers licence? Do you have whānau support to help with childcare?’ I get into their world a little bit and identify how I can help.”
She also talks to other people who interact with the trainees throughout the year, such as polytechnic tutors.
“I find out about the trainee’s attitude and their attendance, and get a feel for how motivated they are. I also look at the basics such as whether they have a CV. If they’re not ready, we look at what they need to work on before we get them in front of an employer.”
As well as evaluating students, Awhina considers whether employers will be a good fit for the trainee.
“I look at what support they’re going to offer and what they’re like as an employer. How willing are they to help the student? Will the student just become another cog in the machine?
“For me, it’s a personal responsibility to ensure that who they end up with is an employer that’s going to support them.”
Note: Awhina’s contract as an MPTT Navigator came to an end in June 2016. To find one of our current Navigators, visit http://www.maoripasifikatrades.co.nz/navigators/
While working as a marine engineer, Lucas realised the lifestyle of living on a ship wasn’t for him. Find out how he launched a new career in the refrigeration and air conditioning trade and found an apprenticeship.
Lucas Rankin always knew he didn’t want to be stuck in an office. But after taking up marine engineering, he soon found himself stuck on a boat.
“I thought I wanted to do marine engineering because it had a lot of variety. But the lifestyle wasn’t for me. You live and work on the ship, so the weekend’s not really a weekend – you’re basically working every day.”
Cool career change
As part of his training in marine engineering, Lucas learned about refrigeration and air conditioning, so he decided to pursue it as a career.
“We did a bit of it on the ship, and I enjoyed it. The gear they have is quite similar to the industrial gear they have on shore.”
After starting his pre-trade Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course at Manukau Institute of Technology, Lucas heard about Maori and Pasifika Trades Training and learned he could have his fees covered by a scholarship.
“That was awesome – I was stoked to find out!”
The 23-year-old, who grew up in Samoa and moved to New Zealand in 2011, now has an apprenticeship at Excel Refrigeration and Air Con Ltd. He works all over Auckland doing the practical work he loves, but with the balance of getting to go home at the end of the day.
“You get to do a lot in this trade. You’ll do welding one day, electrical another day, you even do a bit of plumbing. A lot is involved, which is quite cool.”
Showing initiative
Paddy Durham, a technician at Excel and Chair of the Ammonia Safety Association New Zealand, has been mentoring Lucas for around four months.
He says Lucas is a great worker who shows a lot of initiative.
“He’s a really good apprentice, one of the best I’ve come across. He has a really strong work ethic.
“He’s very intuitive with the whole process. I’ll be thinking about a task and I’ll turn around to find Lucas already handing me the right tool for the job without prompting.
“And if I have to take a phone call and I’m tied up, Lucas will just start cleaning up or keeping himself busy. He’s bloody amazing.”
‘Give it a go’
Lucas says his advice to others considering the trades is to give it a go as soon as possible.
“If you like hands-on work and don’t want to be stuck in an office, try a trade. I knew from a young age I wasn’t going to be in an office for the rest of my life.
“I feel like I should have started learning a trade earlier – like as soon as I got to New Zealand I should have just jumped into refrigeration. But in saying that, I feel like my experience in industrial shipping was really helpful.”
Lucas says he’s loving his apprenticeship and hopes to keep working for Excel after he’s qualified.
He also hopes to inspire other young Pacific Islanders to take up the trade.
“I want people to know that it’s an awesome industry to work in. If you have an interest in engineering, then definitely go for it.”
