9 October 2012

Waikato’s unemployed build a future

Wintec, the Ministry of Social Development and a cluster of Waikato builders have teamed up to help Work and Income clients obtain employment in the construction industry.

Through a programme called Future Build Waikato, selected clients alternate between study at Wintec and work placement with one of 18 participating local builders over eight weeks.

A pilot programme was run in May which resulted in the employment of seven out of nine participants. Currently eight people are involved in the programme, with a further nine due to start later this month.

The skills training provided by Wintec includes hazard register development, first aid, safety, use of power tools, joinery and finishing. It also includes life skills such as time management and attitudes to learning.

Wintec tutors visit the students and their employers during their work placement to reinforce the training and ensure the skills remain relevant.

Participants who show they are capable, with a positive attitude and work ethic, are employed by their host builder at the end of the programme.

Work and Income Regional Commissioner, Te Rehia Papesch said: “Already seven unemployed people have successfully gained employment as a result of the Future Build programme. This is an encouraging start. We have many clients who have a desire to work in the building industry and this programme gives them that opportunity.

“The co-operation of local building and construction employers, along with Wintec’s skills training, has worked well. Their commitment and belief in this programme is critical to its success.”

Wintec Chief Executive, Mark Flowers said: “This is a great example of the government, local industry and an education provider working together to make a positive impact in the community. We’re helping people gain the necessary skills and confidence to contribute to their community and build a career for themselves.”

Livingstone Building Operations Manager, Marcell Amess said: “We’re glad to be involved in the programme. We’ve taken on two participants so far and I’m keen to get another one through in the next in-take. I’ve been particularly impressed with the process the participants are put through to ensure the right type of people are put forward for the programme. Their attitudes have been positive; they actually want to work and they’re producing good results.”

ENDS.

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