BCITO Welcomes Government Apprenticeship Incentives
The Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) is predicting a record number of sign-ups to building apprenticeships, following the Government’s announcement on Friday of a new apprenticeship scheme. This is on the back of increasing numbers of apprentices in Auckland and Christchurch.
Prime Minister John Key announced the Government would invest up to $40 million in incentives for the first 10,000 apprentices, and their employers, who sign up after 1 April.
BCITO chief executive Ruma Karaitiana says this will help get more people into trades sooner.
“The construction industry needs as many people as it can get right now. Building work in Christchurch and Auckland is really kicking off and we expect this demand will stay for quite some time,” Mr Karaitiana says.
The BCITO has been inundated with requests from employers in Auckland so far this year, seeing a 70 per cent increase in employers looking for apprentices compared with last quarter.
“Employers around Auckland are calling to say they are snowed under with work and in desperate need of skilled apprentices, so the new scheme is an important step in the right direction for our industry. This will be a great help.”
New BCITO apprentices will be given a chance to take advantage of Government subsidies. The subsidy is $2,000 for priority construction trades. Their employers will receive the same amount.
“We’re encouraging Auckland job seekers in particular to register their interest at
BCITO.org.nz/lookingforwork. From there we may be able to match them up with employers looking for apprentices, depending on what employers are looking for,” says Mr Karaitiana.
Auckland commercial and residential maintenance company, Fixed For You Ltd, has an abundance of work lined up and owner Brad Williams is currently on the hunt for two carpentry apprentices to join his team.
“Some experience would be good, but we’re looking for people with the right attitude. If they’re a team player and they’re willing to learn, they can be trained,” he says.
Brad says the construction industry has real potential, and encourages young people to get involved.
“New Zealand has a lot of buildings that need on-going maintenance. And with new earthquake standards for commercial buildings, there’s going to be guaranteed work for years to come,” he says.
Career seekers interested in an apprenticeship can register their interest at BCITO.org.nz/lookingforwork or get in contact on Facebook. Employers in the construction industry looking for apprentices can call the BCITO on 0800 442 486.