Eighty people gathered at the NorthTec Apprentice Restaurant in Whangarei on Monday, 19th May, to celebrate a significant milestone in the region's trades training landscape. The evening marked the graduation of 18 apprentices who completed qualifications across multiple disciplines, including carpentry, flooring, joinery, painting, and supervisory roles.

The graduation ceremony highlighted the strong commitment to trades education in Northland, with representatives from companies across the region attending to support their apprentices' achievements.

Dedication Across Distances

Among the evening's standout moments was the attendance of FNR company representatives who travelled three hours from Kaitaia to celebrate their three supervisors' graduation. These newly qualified supervisors are now taking on the important role of teaching and mentoring the next generation of apprentices coming through their company's training programme.

The dedication shown by companies like Ezra Bell was also evident, with two learners from the same organisation graduating together, demonstrating the company's investment in developing multiple skilled tradespeople simultaneously.

Family Support and Life-Changing Achievements

The strong presence of whānau support throughout the evening underscored the community-centred approach to apprentice development in Northland. Families gathered to witness their loved ones' achievements, reflecting the broader impact these qualifications have on individuals and their communities.

A particularly moving moment came when Greg addressed the graduates and attendees, emphasising the transformative nature of their achievement. "Achieving your qualification has changed your life," he told the gathering, capturing the significance of the milestone these apprentices had reached.

Industry Recognition

The evening also celebrated Measure Up Flooring company, which has distinguished itself in the apprenticeship sector by winning both Employer of the Year and having their apprentice recognised as Flooring Apprentice of the Year. The company continues to demonstrate excellence in training and retaining apprentices, setting a benchmark for other employers in the region.

The graduation ceremony represents more than individual achievement; it reflects the growing strength of trades training in Northland and the commitment of both employers and apprentices to building skilled workforces that will serve the region's construction and trades industries for years to come.