Apprentice Leaders
The Apprentice Leaders Group is made up of 16 apprentices, one from each trade, brought together to share their experiences and give the apprentice voice a seat at the table.
Real voice. Real impact.
Apprentice Leaders represent the apprentice voice at an industry level, influencing training, shaping development, and driving change from the inside. Selected from a BCITO apprenticeship, they build leadership skills through hands-on involvement in events and industry programmes over 18 months.
Meet the Apprentice Leaders
Sixteen apprentices. Sixteen trades. One mission: to make sure the apprentice voice is heard where it matters most. Click on their photo to find out a bit more about their employers.
Liam
Liam completed his apprenticeship at Hagley Commercial, Christchurch, excelling across all areas. Known for proactive leadership, problem-solving, and mentoring peers, he's a two-time AAJ Apprentice of the Year entrant passionate about lifting the next generation of tradies.
Oli
Oli is two and a half years into his brick and block laying apprenticeship with SA Thelning in Christchurch, working across residential, commercial and architectural projects. He's keen to build his leadership skills and drive positive change for apprentices coming through the trade.
Noah
Noah left university to pursue a construction apprenticeship, bringing initiative from day one by implementing a company-wide tool tracking system. Calm, peer-respected, and voted cohort Chair for 2026/27, he's passionate about inspiring apprentices to reach their full potential.
Regan
Regan is a third-year apprentice with Colspec Construction in Manawatu. He believes in getting the basics right, taking pride in your work, and bringing your best self daily - values he's keen to pass on to up-and-coming apprentices.
Todd
Todd from Waihi completed his concrete apprenticeship with Brownmore Concrete, winning the 2025 Apprentice of the Year. He's passionate about championing inclusion in the trades, particularly for those with disabilities or neurodiversity, drawing from his own experience.
Noah
Noah from Hawke's Bay has completed his plastering apprenticeship with JR Exterior Plastering, taking pride in high-quality finishes. He brings strong communication and people skills to the Apprentice Leader role, keen to connect with diverse teams and inspire the next generation into the trades.