Building Skills in Tokoroa
A new training initiative starting on April 1 aims to help alleviate the skills shortage in the building industry and
provide better work opportunities for local Tokoroans.
On March 18, a presentation will be made at the Work and Income offices to launch a brand new 12 week “Construction
Skills Programme”, completely funded by Work & Income and being run by Waiariki Institute of Technology.
According to Gordon Acres, Academic Development Coordinator at Waiariki Institute of Technology, “There has been a lot
of talk in the press recently about a shortage in skilled building and construction workers. This new programme will
give participants an entry level national certificate in elementary construction skills which could then lead to
permanent work and a career as a skilled worker in the booming building construction industry.”
According to Maree Kendrick, Regional Development Manager of Waiariki’s Tokoroa campus, “This is the first time we have
run the course in Tokoroa, which is really exciting. The course itself will be taking place at Tokoroa High School and
is completely free and assistance with transport is also available.”
Mr Acres is also delighted with the appointment of a new course tutor. “Mua Taito has agreed to run this course – he is
an excellent tutor with over 20 years experience in the building and construction industry. He will be going through
everything from how to use hand and electric tools to making a bbq table and fence.”
Anyone who is interested in attending the course and the presentation on March 18 should contact Maree Kendrick of
Waiariki Institute of Technology on 07 885 0200 or their Work & Income case manager.
Presentation Details: When: 10.30am, Thursday 18 March 2004 Where: Work and Income Offices, Tokoroa