Amy Stowers

Amy got into construction back in 2015, starting out as a hammer hand with J&R Builders and learning the trade properly from the ground up.

Like a lot of people getting started in the industry, it was early mornings, hard work, and learning on the go. Before long though, she realised construction was something she genuinely enjoyed and wanted to build a future in, so she backed herself and signed into a BCITO apprenticeship.

By 2023, she’d completed her apprenticeship and become fully qualified. But instead of stopping there, Amy decided to keep building on it.

Alongside working full-time, she also completed a Diploma in Construction Management, which helped open up opportunities away from being fully on the tools.

Since then, she’s continued to work her way through the company, moving from Project Coordinator to Assistant Project Manager, and now into a Project Manager role where she’s running jobs and overseeing projects herself.

It’s a pretty good example of where an apprenticeship can take you.

A lot of people still think trades only lead to being on the tools forever, but Amy’s story shows there’s plenty of different pathways once you get qualified. Whether it’s leadership, management, owning a business, or specialising in a certain area, there’s a lot of opportunity in the industry if you’re willing to put in the work.

One thing Amy values most is that she’s been able to stay with the same company throughout the journey, continuing to grow while working alongside good people and learning from experienced staff around her.

Outside of work, Amy’s heavily involved in the community too. Alongside her partner, who’s a foreman at the same company, she helps run the senior men’s side at Awanui Rugby Club.

That connection between sport, community, and trades is something BCITO sees a lot. Rugby clubs are full of hardworking people who already understand teamwork, commitment, and turning up consistently, which are the exact same qualities employers look for in apprentices.

If you’re involved in your local rugby club, whether you’re playing, coaching, helping out, or just around the club, there are genuine opportunities to get started in the trades.

Through club connections and the BCITO network, you can:

• Meet employers looking for apprentices
• Get work experience opportunities
• Start earning while you learn
• Build a career that sets you up long after footy

Sometimes it honestly starts with a quick conversation.

Have a chat with your coach, manager, mates around the club, or get in touch with BCITO directly to see what opportunities are out there.

Like rugby, it comes down to turning up, backing yourself, and putting in the work.