Merger Further Consolidates ITO Sector
Further consolidation of the ITO sector will happen on May 1st when Competenz, ITO for manufacturing, engineering and
food and beverage manufacturing, takes over responsibility for the forestry, wood manufacturing, furniture and
biosecurity ITO, FITEC.
“Competenz, as a high performing ITO, is committed to delivering high quality training meeting industry’s needs,” says
John Blakey, Competenz CEO. “We are looking forward to working with the industry and will maintain a sector identity for
the industry within our brand, operations in Rotorua, and a sector advisory committee structure, and will continue to
engage with the wider industry stakeholder groups.
The rationale for FITEC’s merger with Competenz is based on the strong links between manufacturing and wood processing
where there are already overlaps with training qualifications. There are also links with forestry where increasing
mechanisation, in-forest log manufacturing, and use of heavy equipment provide a ready relationship with engineering and
manufacturing. In addition, the forest and wood industry are keen to keep the wood supply chain intact and industry
associations have expressed support for the merger.
“The upskilling of the employees in the sectors we cover is vital to the health of the New Zealand economy,” says Mr
Blakey, “The merger between Competenz and FITEC will simplify the system and provide benefits not only for learners and
companies but for the country as well.”
ENDS