Building your future

Whatever the style of project, from a futuristic commercial building to a traditional domestic home, a qualified tradesperson can approach it safe in the knowledge that they have the background and know-how to achieve the best possible results for their client.

A paid apprenticeship with an experienced master tradesperson sets you up for a career where you are in control and work is rarely in short supply, says Ian Elliott, chief executive of the Plumbing, Gasfitting, Drainlaying and Roofing Industry Training Organisation (ITO).

"The ITO offers solid advice and industry leads to put you in touch with master tradespeople who consider passing on their knowledge and skills an asset to their company and to the industry," Elliott says.

Armstrong Plumbing is a good example of a company that sets up young people with a rewarding, challenging and reliable career for life. General manager Bryce Armstrong explains that one of the company's mission statements is to constantly invest in the training and development of staff.

"Our company is committed to supporting the plumbing and drainage industry by providing a training ground for new employees and apprentices," says Armstrong. "We also provide opportunities for school leavers to test the environment with work experience that can lead to these apprenticeships."

"Because we have highly trained tradespeople in our company with many years' experience in the industry, they are able to assist the younger tradespeople to advance to a higher level. In turn, this means we can provide a high level of service for our customers."

Bryce Armstrong is well-placed to understand the value of passing on learned skills. He is a third-generation plumber from Te Awamutu, where his grandfather first started a plumbing business back in 1927. Bryce Armstrong's son Cole is now the fourth generation of Armstrongs to carry on in the plumbing industry.

Armstrong Plumbing's staff includes seven craftsman plumbers, five tradesman plumbers, seven apprentice plumbers and four registered drainlayers.

ITO's Ian Elliott says this forward-looking company is typical of the environments the ITO can connect people to in search of a rewarding career path.

For information on Armstrong Plumbing, phone 07 543 4327. Email: info@armstrongplumbing.co.nz.

To contact PGDR ITO, phone 0800 277 736. Email:info@ito.co.nz. Or visit the website: www.ito.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas