Top building apprentice in Waikato Bay of Plenty announced

Top building apprentice in Waikato Bay of Plenty Region announced

Matamata carpentry apprentice Matthew Frost has been named the Waikato Bay of Plenty Registered Master Builders Carters 2014 Apprentice of the Year.

The 22 year old, employed by Gudsell Designer Homes in Matamata and trained through the BCITO, impressed judges who say Matthew is an engaging apprentice with a well-rounded, solid skill set.

“It was evident from the start that Matthew is an apprentice with real ability to run a building site and have control over all facets of the build. All questions asked of him received answers that clearly demonstrated an in-depth knowledge of his industry,” they said.

“Matthew is well-liked by his peers and the judges recognised his commitment to the trade.”

Matthew was awarded an array of prizes, including his choice of either a study grant to the value of $2,000 or $2,000 to spend at Carters and a place at an Outward Bound Leadership Programme, as well as the sought-after title of Waikato Bay of Plenty Registered Master Builders Carters 2014 Apprentice of the Year.

Second place in the Waikato Bay of Plenty Region was awarded to Hayden Gamble, 22, of Hamilton, employed by Mark Inia Building in Te Awamutu, while third place went to Jesse Boreham, 22, of Hamilton, employed by Livingstone Building.

The results were announced at an awards evening at Claudelands Exhibition and Events Centre in Hamilton on Thursday 14 August.

RMBA acting chief executive Brendon Ward says it is gratifying to see a strong group of contenders putting themselves forward to be judged against their peers at this year’s Apprentice of the Year competition.

“Apprentices who are willing to stand up and strive to be the best they can be demonstrate the excellent talent coming through our building and construction industry. The builders who take on those apprentices should also be praised for their contribution to the growth and succession of the sector.”

BCITO chief executive Ruma Karaitiana says Apprentice of the Year is a great way of encouraging best practice among young builders.

“We are right behind initiatives that provide a benchmark for builders and encourage the young ones to work to the highest standard possible. The competition is an opportunity for apprentices to stand out from their peers and really put their skills to the test.”

Winning apprentice Matthew Frost will now go on to compete against the winners from eight other regions at the national competition in Auckland where each apprentice will undergo a 45-minute interview with the national judging panel.

Finalists will then compete in a practical carpentry challenge where each apprentice will be tasked with completing a small building project, to be gifted to local charities on completion. The practical challenge will take place at The Cloud on Friday 17 October and will be open to the public.

The winner of the Registered Master Builders Carters 2014 Apprentice of the Year will then be announced at an awards dinner at The Cloud.

Apprentices, employers and young people aspiring to be a part of the construction industry are encouraged to join the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/apprenticeoftheyear and for more information visit www.apprenticeoftheyear.co.nz.

Owned by the Registered Master Builders Association, the Apprentice of the Year competition is made possible thanks to principal sponsor Carters, the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO), and supporting sponsor the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

ENDS

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