The Southern Apprentice of the Year Regional Winner is..🛠️
8 September 2023
The top three Apprentices from the Central South Island region have been announced for the 2023 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 step stool. The top 10 from each region then progressed to the interview stage with a judging panel and an onsite visit to discuss their project.
Craig Burke from Wanaka has been named the Southern 2023 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year. Craig was trained through BCITO | Te Pūkenga and is employed by Bayview Construction.
The judges said "Craig’s submission was well laid out, with great utilisation of plans and photos, illustrating the various stages of his build. During the interview, he exuded confidence and presented himself well. His site visit, on a new build, impressed the judges, and highlighted his profound understanding of the practical aspects of building."
"During the practical competition his time management skills and commitment to maintaining a tidy site were truly commendable. He also demonstrated a keen desire for knowledge by consistently seeking guidance and ensuring he stayed on the right track."
Second place was awarded to Sam Hoskins from Lake Hawea. Sam is employed by Dunlop Builders and trained through BCITO | Te Pūkenga.
"Sam’s career transition into the building and construction industry has been very successful. His project submission not only displayed a solid grasp of building products but also a strong understanding of building practices. His dedication to safety in the practical competition was evident through the use of good quality tools and meticulous attention to health and safety procedures. His preference for working on high-end homes, requiring both deep thought and high-end trade skills, reflects his commitment to excellence."
In third place was Jackson Reardon, from Wanaka. Jackson is employed by CDL Building and is also trained through BCITO | Te Pūkenga.
"With experience in both residential and commercial construction, Jackson demonstrated the ability to navigate complex building processes. In his current role, he exhibits a profound knowledge of his responsibilities, and a genuine passion for the building industry. His clear goals and aspirations for the future highlight his dedication to personal and professional growth. Jackson is a well-rounded apprentice with a bright future ahead."
National Competition
The top apprentice from each region will then go on to compete in the National Competition in Auckland. This includes a 45-minute interview with the national judging panel and an additional six-hour practical skills test, followed by the National Awards Dinner where we will announce the winner.
The National Practical will be co-located at CONZTRUCT Auckland North on Thursday 9th November 2023 at Eventfinda Stadium.
CONZTRUCT is New Zealand's largest travelling construction trade show and attracts thousands of builders, architects, designers, and other trade professionals at its 16 annual events nationwide. Each event covers the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, and the exhibition includes showcasing a diverse range of products and services from the industry’s brand leaders.
If you have any questions please email aoy@masterbuilder.org.nz