04 May 2009
FITEC is hosting nine graduation ceremonies over the next four weeks to celebrate the training achievements of more than 1500 wood industry modern apprentices and trainees, who have completed around 2000 national certificates in 2008.The events recognise the hard work, commitment and dedication to learning each individual has shown. All graduates have completed their study towards national certificates while working full-time.
FITEC Chief Executive, Ian Boyd says, “Our graduates are all ages and from many different backgrounds. What they have in common is a motivation to learn and becoming qualified in their profession.
“The value of training for graduates, their employers and their communities is immense. By choosing to improve their vocational knowledge, they become role models for others in the industry, they increase their own skills and confidence and they add significant value and improved productivity to the industry as a whole.”
Mr Boyd says that even in tough times, learning is important. “Continuing to upskill staff in times of recession is a good use of downtime,” he says, “and recognition of that learning achievement is important. As we share in their celebrations, we wish our graduates well in their careers and any future training they undertake.”
The function is sponsored by ACC. ACC Programme Manager for Forestry, Don Ramsay says, “ACC is proud to join with FITEC in celebrating training achievements in the wood industries.
“Both specific and generic skills training help to enhance career opportunities and make employees feel more valued.
“An investment in training also improves safety as individuals work together as teams and develop good leadership, good problem solving and good communication skills.”
Mr Ramsay says that a safety culture programme currently being tested with forestry contractors in Rotorua and Nelson is confirming that a commitment to training is always beneficial to both employers and employees.
“Skilled teams are better at looking after each other and tend to stay in their jobs longer,” he says. “They also become good at thinking for themselves and providing valuable feedback when there are problems to solve.
“ACC is proud to support training a safer wood industry.”
The celebrations are being held in Whangarei (30 April), Nelson (1 May), Taupo (7 May), Napier (8 May), Wanganui (14 May), Rotorua (15 May), Christchurch (21 May), Dunedin (22 May) and Masterton (29 May). Employers, colleagues and families will be attending to support the graduates.
Source: FITEC media release