Apprenticeship Graduation - filling the skills gap

On Wednesday 14 November, thirty graduates gathered with their family, friends and employers for the Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony at the new South Waikato Sport and Events Centre to celebrate passing their apprenticeships.

The celebration has been held annually since 2006 and includes graduates from Industry Training Organisations (ITOs) like Competenz, Careerforce, Building and Construction, Electricity Supply, Motor and the Electrical Training Company who present courses for motor, electrical, building and engineering trades through to health, disability and aged care, community support services, and youth work. Engineering and Automotive students from the Tokoroa Trade Training Centre are also included in the ceremony.

His Worship the Mayor Neil Sinclair spoke personally to each graduate encouraging them to continue with their studies, emphasizing that trades are an essential skill set we need in the district.

"Don't let this be your last certificate," he said to many of the students. "Through strong collaboration between training organisation Waiariki, industry leaders Waratah NZ, South Waikato Precision Engineering (SWPE), Industrial Valve Engineering (IVE), Garry's Garage, Holsters Engineering Co and ABB and with the backing and financial support of Council we have managed to plug the skills gap evident in the district several years back."

"The Tokoroa Trade Training Centre is a shining example of what driven and determined industry leaders, education providers and a committed Council can achieve," continued Mayor Sinclair. "This year the Trade Training Centre had a 100% pass rate!"

The course tutors from Waiariki Institute of Technology spoke proudly of their students, their high attendance rates and commitment to the course. While lunch was being served guests were treated to a performance by Forest View High School's Polinetia Fa'atasi Polynesian performance.

ENDS Date: Friday 16 November: words: 267