Jobs waiting for UCOL Construction graduates

Jobs waiting for UCOL Construction graduates

Employment opportunities in the Manawatu are already opening up for graduates of UCOL’s new Diploma in Construction.

UCOL’s Executive Dean of Trades and Technology Kelly Gay says UCOL consulted with the construction industry before deciding to introduce the programme, from February next year. “Without exception, employers were enthusiastic, saying they need these graduates.”

The one year programme includes training in Quantity Surveying, Management and Architectural Technician skills. Graduates can expect employment as building merchants and suppliers, building subcontractors, construction managers for residential and commercial properties, building inspectors, and in property management, insurance, and interior design or drafting.

Architect Brian Elliott, from design group Stapleton Elliott, says the new qualification will provide graduates who are greatly needed in the construction industry. “Until now industry technicians have been few and far between in the Manawatu. That includes management, quantity surveying and architectural technicians. There are vacancies waiting to be filled by these graduates.”

He adds that the new diploma programme delivers a combination of practical and theory learning that will help raise the quality of construction work.

Rodney Caldow, from Caldow Builders based in Foxton, says students who complete the new qualification will be sought after. “I’d like some of my senior staff to do this programme. Having skilled staff with training like this is crucial to the success of a business like mine.”

Andrew Lloyd from Levin-based Lloyd Construction Limited also gives the new qualification his tick of approval. “It delivers a great skill set,” he says. “Our company handles a lot of varied and complex contracts. People with the skills provided by UCOL’s new Diploma in Construction will suit businesses like ours very well.”

Kelly Gay says there’s also a big demand for skilled construction people in the rest of New Zealand. “We’re about to see a substantial increase in building activity, driven by the need for leaky home repairs, the Christchurch rebuild, earthquake strengthening work around New Zealand, and a shortage of residential housing stock, especially in Auckland. It’s the perfect time for young people to train for an industry where good, well-paid jobs are waiting,” he says.

The introduction of the new diploma is part of UCOL’s Rebuild NZ initiative to encourage young people into training for the Construction industry, as the “right choice at the right time”.

Students on the new diploma programme also have the advantage of working in UCOL’s new Regional Trades and Technology Training Centre in Palmerston North. They will learn from qualified and committed lecturers with industry experience, using the latest industry-standard technology and equipment.

When they complete their study, graduates will be equipped to act, under supervision, as construction technicians on small and medium scale buildings projects, through all stages to completion. This includes first client contact, research and assistance with design documentation, drawing documentation, tender, contract and construction.

“It’s easy to see why these people are so in demand,” says Kelly.

ENDS

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