The Lower North Island Apprentice of the Year Regional Winner is...🛠️

09 September 2024

Celebrating over two decades of excellence among carpentry apprentices, Registered Master Builders, in partnership with CARTERS, is proud to announce the top three apprentices for the Lower North Island region.

Ben Stokes from Wainuiomata, Lower Hutt has been named the Lower North Island 2024 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year. Ben was trained through BCITO and is employed by SGB Construction.

In second place was Hendrik van Stryp from Miramar, Wellington. Hendrik is employed by TH Carpentry and trained through BCITO. Third place was awarded to Alfonso Escobar from Wellington, who is employed by Blokhaus and trained through BCITO.

Now in its 21st 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 assesses the project management, business presentation, and practical skills of future leaders in the sector. 

 



Judges' comments for first placegetter, Ben Stokes:
Ben performed well under pressure at the practical event. The time he took to read through the plans and documents ensured a successful project delivery. A well-prepared all-rounder, Ben demonstrated clear, confident thinking throughout the challenge. 

Ben maintained a fantastic rapport with clients and the onsite team during his site visit, and his confident walkthrough of a problematic build was impressive. His comprehensive health and safety induction and ability to work independently on a tricky site further highlighted his capabilities. His desire to learn and excel is evident, promising a bright future in the industry. Congratulations, Ben, on your outstanding achievement.


 



Judges' comments for second placegetter, Hendrik van Stryp:
Hendrik presented a fantastic onsite project, demonstrating good product terminology and problem-solving skills. His leadership qualities and comprehensive health and safety induction were also commendable.

He excelled in the practical event, handling the pressure well. Hendrik’s impressive tool kit was well-organised, and he earned respect from fellow apprentices. His understanding of complex project details was remarkable. Mature beyond his years, Hendrik has a bright future in the industry.

Judges' comments for third placegetter, Alfonso Escobar:
Alfonso had a strong understanding of his project scope. While on-site, he had effective time management, leadership qualities, and a fantastic rapport with the clients. His thorough health and safety induction and informative build walkthrough were also outstanding. 
It's impressive to see such advanced skills after just two years; this was further showcased at the practical event, where Alfonso performed well under the time pressure. Travelling halfway around the world to pursue this career demonstrates Alfonso’s dedication and passion for the building industry. 

National Competition
The top apprentice from each region will now go head-to-head and compete in the national competition. This includes a 45-minute interview with the national judging panel and an additional six-hour practical skills test. The national competition will take place on 7 - 8 November in Auckland at CONZTRUCT.