25 August 2015
Opening their print factory as part of national Got a Trade Week has proved a good way for Auckland-based printing firm McCollams Print to build links with local schools and jobseekers and help them understand what a career in printing involves.
“We’re committed to our apprentice and supporting groups of young people to come through our doors to experience what it’s like to work in the printing industry,” McCollams Print Factory Manager Ian Goggin says.
“When I was young, my father used to say to me to get a trade; you can take it anywhere with you. It would be great to see more young people in the print industry and getting into trades.”
Rangitoto College Year 13 student Ashley Field says going on the tour was a great chance to explore a print business.
“Doing the tour was definitely worth doing,” Ashley says.
“I enjoyed seeing the process of how the products are made, particularly the plate-making process which was interesting. It was great to gain more knowledge on the industry. I would definitely recommend the tour to other young people.”
Competenz customer McCollams Print joins 25 other companies which have generously opened their doors to host a Competenz Discovery Tour as part Got a Trade Week. Competenz Discovery Tours are an opportunity for school students, job seekers and teachers to visit a local workplace to learn about the career options available in trades and services industries and learn about the work involved.
Got a Trade Week is also a chance to hear from current trades apprentices who are enjoying the benefits of training on-the-job in their chosen trade.
“The trades offer great career opportunities,” says Rachel Hopkins, Competenz General Manager Marketing and Communications and Chair of the national Got a Trade campaign.
“Apprentices are earning while they learn and they finish their training with a job in their chosen field – not looking for one. They’re also gaining practical skills they can use from day one and qualifications that are recognised by employers across New Zealand.
“Plus New Zealand needs more skilled tradespeople. This means good employment prospects and opportunities to build successful careers, which may include owning a business one day and travelling overseas.”
About national Got a Trade Week (21 to 28 August 2015)
Got a Trade Week is a national campaign, chaired by Competenz and supported by seven industry training organisations, that promotes and celebrates careers in New Zealand’s trades and service industries and the benefits of learning on-the-job.
More information
- www.gotatrade.co.nz
- Watch Television One’s breakfast show on Thursday 27 August
