BCITO sets record

With demand for apprentices still on the rise, BCITO has achieved another construction industry first by signing up more than 5,000 apprentices in 2014 – but demand still remains high

At the close of 2014, BCITO had signed up 5,542 apprentices across the country – an all-time record. BCITO chief executive Ruma Karaitiana said strong economic activity and demand for construction work had driven up numbers.

“The construction industry has been running hot for the last 18 months or so,” he said. “The growth was initially fuelled by Christchurch, but in 2014 we saw a lift across the whole country.”

Despite the record number of sign-ups, the industry is falling behind the demand for new apprentices, said Mr Karaitiana.

“Christchurch will come to a natural peak soon but, with demand in Auckland forecast to be high beyond 2020, we’re still going to be short of what we need going forward.

Apprentice number 5,000

Trevor Mackie (left)

Trevor began working for R A Hale when he heard about the opportunity through his school, Hagley Community College. Three months later, recognised as a dedicated and attentive worker, he signed onto a joinery apprenticeship.

“I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands to create a finished product,” said Trevor. “The best thing about being an apprentice is learning something new every day, and finding out better ways of doing things that you might not have known beforehand.”

In his spare time, Trevor’s a keen BMX racer and at 16 years old was ranked number nine in New Zealand. He also competed in the BMX World Championships held in Auckland in 2013.

“He’s a really great member of the team, a good all-rounder. We’re looking forward to mentoring him further,” said R A Hale 1997 managing director Donald Bisphan.