Waikato Regional Winners Announced
The top three Apprentices from the Waikato region have been announced for the 2021 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year.
The Apprentice of the Year competition recognises excellence among carpentry apprentices and raises awareness of career opportunities in the building and construction industry. The competition tests our future sector leaders' project management, business, presentation, and practical skills.
For the regional competition, each apprentice had to initially submit a building project. They then took part in a two-hour practical challenge where they were tasked with building a shoe rack. The top 10 from each region then progressed to the interview stage with a judging panel and an onsite visit to discuss their project.
Building apprentice Hayden Lambert from Hamilton was named the Waikato 2021 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year. The 26-year-old was trained through BCITO and is employed by SJR Builders.
Hayden was a standout during this year’s Waikato competition and was a consistent top performer. From an exceptional submission and confident interview to a fantastic practical performance, Hayden was most impressive. During his site visit, he showed an outstanding comprehension of a complex and detailed build that was well above where the judges expected any apprentice would be.
Second place went to Edward Johnstone, from Hamilton. He’s employed by Kelvin Lalich and trained through BCITO.
During Edward's site visit, he demonstrated knowledge well beyond his years – there was not one area of his project that he didn’t fully understand. Taking a lead role in a very complex roofing structure that many qualified carpenters would struggle with, he impressed his on-site foreman during the build as well as the judges during the site visit.
Third Place went to Caylan Wairepo, from Ngaruawahia. He works for T Wilson Builders and is trained through BCITO.
Caylan excelled in both the practical challenge and the formal interview, showing great knowledge plus an in-depth understanding of the building industry and code. Caylan is a personable young man and undoubtedly an asset to his team.
The top apprentice from each region will then go on to compete in the Master Builders National competition. This includes a 45-minute interview with the national judging panel and an additional six-hour practical skills test.
For more information about the competition, visit www.apprenticeoftheyear.co.nz