MEDIA RELEASE
From: FITEC
2 pages
For immediate release
5 June 2008
Canterbury wood industries congratulate their 2007-2008 graduates
Nathan Hoglund is one of 37 graduates celebrating their achievements in the local wood industries on tonight in
Christchurch.
They will be joined by more than 108 guests congratulating the trainees, who will graduate with an industry
qualification. All of the trainees and Modern Apprentices have completed their study towards national certificates while
working fulltime.
The event is sponsored by ACC and organised by FITEC (the industry training organisation for the forestry, wood
manufacturing, furniture, biosecurity & credit management industries) to recognise the hard work, commitment and dedication to learning each individual has
shown throughout the last year.
FITEC Chief Executive, Ian Boyd says, “Lifetime learning is important in all professions these days and the wood
industries are no exception. Training builds confidence and adds significant value by improving industry productivity
and individual capability.
“This year’s graduates are a great example of people who’ve chosen to increase their vocational knowledge and skills by
committing to learning and becoming qualified.
“They are a wonderful mix of age and gender. We will enjoy sharing their regional celebration with them and wish them
well in their careers and any future training they undertake.”
Don Ramsay, ACC Programme Manager for Forestry says that ACC is proud to support training a safer forestry industry.
“ACC is delighted to join with FITEC in supporting and celebrating training achievements across the wood industries. The
improved safety culture is something the industry can be proud of.”
Mr Ramsay said an investment in training helps to retain staff by enhancing career opportunities and making workers feel
more valued. Experienced staff who have worked together for a period of time are also much less likely to be injured.
“A commitment to safety training is always beneficial to both employers and employees, and is fully supported by ACC.”
The celebrations are being held at the Crowne Plaza (Cnr of Kilmore St and Durham St, Christchurch) with colleagues and
employers from 17 companies – including Cable Logging Ltd, Davies Furniture, Southern Pine Products, Westco Lagan Ltd
and Brand Logging - cheering graduates on.
The Canterbury ceremony is the one of six regional graduations that have been held throughout New Zealand over the past
month. Over 1000 trainees completed their national certificates in 2007.
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