Construction surge leaves industry short of apprentices

The number of apprentices in the building industry has decreased to nearly half of what it was in the boom years from 2005 to 2008. In 2012, the number of BCITO apprentices fell well below 5,000 apprentices. Although things are finally turning around, some employers are now struggling to find an apprentice to fit their requirements.

“The recovery is certainly leading the way in Auckland and Christchurch, which is where we’re seeing most new apprentices signed up,” said BCITO chief executive Ruma Karaitiana.

“This isn’t to say that things aren’t happening in other areas, it’s just not quite at the same level.

“The number of people going into new apprenticeships is certainly an indicator for better times. We’re particularly excited about this, as the volume of new apprenticeships in 2013 has surpassed anything we’ve experienced over the past few years. This is not a seasonal blip in the data – things are seriously happening out there.”

In the year to April, there has been a 22% increase in new BCITO apprenticeships compared to last year.

Traditionally, things start winding down at this time of year. This year, BCITO is still taking calls from plenty of employers who need more and more apprentices to cope with upcoming demand. It seems not even winter will slow this recovery.

In 2011, BCITO introduced a new ‘job-matching’ service to help find new apprentices for BCITO employers. Since late 2012, the organisation has been flat out taking calls from employers looking for new apprentices.

Attitude makes up for inexperience

However, it seems the laws of supply and demand are starting to swing and apprentices are becoming increasingly hard to find. Many employers contacting BCITO are disappointed to hear that anyone with building experience is already employed in the industry. This means most are now taking on younger people with little or no experience.

Finding suitable apprentices with the right attitude is therefore really important, and even these are now in short supply in Auckland and Christchurch. Employers contacting the BCITO looking for an apprentice can expect to wait at least a week before anyone suitable is found – sometimes longer. The BCITO is also actively promoting its trades to career seekers to create a pool of people with a great attitude to get into training.

If you’re an employer and need a new apprentice, get in touch with BCITO on 0800 422 486. Most employers can expect to be matched with a suitable apprentice within a week or two.