JULY APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH

Second-year apprentice from Dunedin goes up against it to claim top prize!

Ryan Whitburn, a second-year apprentice from Dunedin, was faced with the challenge of straightening bedroom walls. Despite them being 40mm out of whack, Ryan stayed calm, trusted his training and successfully completed the job.

Due to the age of the house, Ryan says he had to be painstakingly careful when making his alterations.

“I had to run the laser level across the wall and find the worst point, then go over every stud and cut timber battens to make the stud plumb.”

The result was a beautiful, straight wall that the bedside table, headboard and wardrobe shelving could be fixed to, with all the joinery finished flush against it.

Ryan says he learned heaps from the experience.

“It taught me the value of being cautious and ensuring I prepare for each job really well, which means I’m more likely to produce a quality outcome.”

Ryan won a $200 PlaceMakers gift card for his achievement.