Building a career for themselves

Twelve aspiring builders from across New Zealand have been given the opportunity to build a dynamic future for themselves as part of the 2013 intake for the PlaceMakers Apprentice Scholarship Scheme (PASS).

In partnership with the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO), PlaceMakers developed and launched the programme to support the building industry, by helping to attract talented young people to a career in the sector.

PlaceMakers is proud to be a part of training the country’s next generation of builders.

Their call for applicants, which was put out last year, was met with such an overwhelming response and high calibre of applicants that PlaceMakers decided to offer two additional spots, increasing the original ten PASS placements to 12.

From Auckland to Gore, the selected apprentices will have their BCITO fees paid by PlaceMakers throughout the duration of their studies. Each trainee will also receive ongoing mentoring, support and experience at their local PlaceMakers branch, as they work towards completing their qualification.

Former PlaceMakers’ chief executive John Beveridge said the launch of the pilot programme is well-timed, as New Zealand experiences a spike in demand for qualified tradespeople and an increase in building activities.

“There hasn’t been a better time to start in the building industry in New Zealand for a long while,” said Mr Beveridge.

“The Christchurch rebuild is gearing up and Auckland is tipped for exponential population growth. As a result, the demand for skilled builders and other dedicated tradespeople is high and will only continue to grow.”

PlaceMakers is proud to be a part of training the country’s next generation of builders.

“Partnering with BCITO to offer the PASS programme to such enthusiastic and deserving young people means they have the opportunity and support they need to get a head start in the industry,” said Mr Beveridge.

“The pool of young talent we had to choose from was overwhelming and the programme just makes sense in terms of helping address the increased demand across the country.”

PASS recipient Matt Stringer, originally from Christchurch and now based in New Plymouth, was already enrolled in BCITO National Certificate in Carpentry course when his employer at G. J. Gardner Homes franchise KoDesign suggested he apply.

“I thought it was an amazing opportunity, so I made sure I put my name in,” says Matt, who decided to take up building just over a year ago after three years studying finance and marketing at Otago University.

He admits he wasn’t banking on being selected, but PlaceMakers judges said his passion for this new line of work shone through and made him an ideal recipient.

“I couldn’t believe it when I found out I was selected!” says Matt. “I’m so stoked to be part of the programme and I’m really looking forward to the mentoring and work experience.”

The PlaceMakers Apprentice Scholarship Scheme was open to young people already enrolled in the BCITO National Certificate in Carpentry course or anyone keen to start a career in the building industry.

Applications for the 2014 intake are expected to commence in January next year.