NZ’s top apprentices

BCITO recently recognised a number of trades at its ‘Apprentice of the Year’ awards – acknowledging the valuable contribution required to build the houses Kiwis own and love

NZ Painting & Decorating Apprentice of the Year

The top performer and overall winner was Hona Spratt, who worked his way up through the ranks at Braddock Decorators. He began his career during the school holidays working for pocket money. Now he’s a project manager with the company, is in charge of eight painters and responsible for delivering jobs on time and to a high standard.

“My painting apprenticeship has changed my life so much for the better,” said Hona. “I’m passionate about what I do and see a great future in this business for me.”

BCITO Flooring Apprentice of the Year

Coromandel flooring apprentice Stafford Moody, of Fagans’ NZ Ltd, Whitianga, won the Supreme Flooring Apprentice of the Year Award and was named BCITO Stage Three Flooring Apprentice of the Year.

The award was based on his performance at the Allied Trades Institute, while undertaking off-job training. Principal tutor Jeff Henry said: “Stafford worked tirelessly to hone his finishing skills and always showed good logic with his decisions.”

“It was a bit unexpected,” said Stafford. “There were two other classes and so you never know who is there and how good they are, but I’m very happy.”

Master Joiners Apprentice Awards

David Irvine of Barrett Joinery Ltd, Timaru, received BCITO’s Ernie Jelinek Cup for the Most Promising Joinery Apprentice.

Glass & Glazing Association and Window Association of nz Awards

Anthony Bergman of Metro Performance Glass, Christchurch, was named the Most Promising Glass & Glazing Apprentice. Also presented at this event was the award for the Most Promising Architectural Aluminium Joinery Apprentice, won by Ashley Hooker of Frankton Aluminium Ltd.

National Kitchen & Bathroom Association Conference

Gillian Flynn of Kitchen Inspirations in Pukekohe was presented with the Judy Bark Cup and awarded the title of New Zealand’s Most Promising Design Student 2015.

 

BCITO values the opportunity to share in celebrating all high-achieving apprentices who aspire to be industries’ leaders of the future. These events are also a wonderful opportunity for BCITO people to catch up with employers and stakeholders around the country.

 

 

 

Main image: BCITO flooring awards recipients (l-r): Flooring Planning and Design Trainee of the Year Paul Williams, Villars Trophy (a special recognition award for outstanding commitment and dedication) recipient Ben Meister, BCITO chief executive Ruma Karaitiana, Supreme Flooring Apprentice of the Year winner Stafford Moody, Stage One Flooring Apprentice of the Year Nathan Weston and Stage Two Flooring Apprentice of the Year Richard Blomfield