Top Building Apprentices Announced!

The top apprentices from each region have been announced for the 2023 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year. 

Now in its 20th 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 submit details of a building project they had worked on as well as take part in a two-hour practical challenge where they were tasked with building a step stool. The top 10 participants from each region then progressed to the interview stage with a judging panel and an onsite visit to discuss their submitted building project in detail. 

The eight top apprentices will now go on to compete in the national competition in November. This will include a 45-minute interview with the national judging panel and an additional six-hour practical skills test, followed by the National Awards Dinner where the national winner will be announced. 

Congratulations to all of our regional winners!

ISSAC POSTHUMA

Region: Northern | Training provider: BCITO | Te Pūkenga | Employer: JR Build

Judges said Isaac made a great effort during the practical challenge and completed his project to a very high standard. "Isaac really came to life during the site visit – his involvement in the project was clear and his passion for building shone through."

JACK NEVINES

Region: Auckland | Training provider: BCITO | Te Pūkenga| Employer: Faulker Construction 

The judges said Jack's application was close to perfection. They had never before seen such an in-depth and detailed submission and is one of the strongest apprentices the judges have seen during their time. "He had a faultless interview and did an excellent job in the practical challenge. Jack has excelled in every aspect of this competition."
 

MIKE WATSON

Region: Bay of Plenty / Central Plateau | Training provider: BCITO | Te Pūkenga| Employer: JBH Building

The judges were impressed with Mike and said he "excelled in the first stage of the competition. With a strong ability to communicate, Mike had an excellent submission that showed a very solid understanding of his project. His practical project was very well-built, and we were impressed with his high level of workmanship."

JESS NIELSEN

Region: Waikato | Training provider: BCITO | Te Pūkenga | Employer: Sloan Annand Builders

Judges said Jess showed great focus and technique with her tools. "She is very accurate in her work, shows excellent competency and her project was finished to an extremely high standard. At her site visit, Jess proved she was a well-rounded apprentice with a clear passion for the trades and a drive to perform. Jess is an impressive apprentice."

TAHARANGI MCWATTERS

Region: Central North Island / East Coast & Hawke’s Bay | Training provider: BCITO | Te Pūkenga | Employer: Wayne Bishop Group

Judges said "During the practical challenge Taharangi had tidy, well-presented tools and worked in an orderly manner.   It’s clear that Taharangi has an incredible passion for construction. He is an enthusiastic apprentice and is well liked and respected by his colleagues."
 

TIM PARKINSON

Region: Cook Strait | Training provider: BCITO | Te Pūkenga | Employer: RenovateMe Nelson

The judges said Tim’s submission "showcased his solid understanding of his project, with detailed explanations of tasks and materials used. He consistently referred to acceptable solutions and standards, displaying impressive knowledge.  His techniques and tool utilisation throughout the practical challenge were impressive, demonstrating versatility and confidence. It's impressive to see advanced skills after only two years apprenticeship. "
 

JAKE ROCHFORD

Region: Central South Island | Training provider: BCITO | Te Pūkenga | Employer: LOC Construction

The judges said "Jake displayed leadership qualities during his interview and demonstrated competence in completing tasks given to him. He is already involved with solving complex issues onsite with senior colleagues, and he is a valued team member who works well alongside his workmates."

CRAIG BURKE

Region: Southern | Training provider: BCITO | Te Pūkenga | Employer: 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. His site visit 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."