From Tracks To Trades: Jackson Bell’s Flooring Success In New Zealand

Jeff Henry - FloorNZ, Jackson Bell, Greg Durkin – BCITO

Now a BCITO-qualified flooring installer, Jackson’s hard work and star quality was recognised on the 19th of September, when he headed to Auckland to accept the Hayden McKenzie Memorial Trophy, at the Flooring Apprentice of the Year Awards.

“The awards night was amazing – meeting people in the industry and putting faces to names was a real highlight. I’m stoked that the trophy is coming home to where it deserves to live, here in Northland,” he says.

This is an especially significant achievement for Jackson after the passing of his mum earlier this year. She had been a proud supporter of his studies, celebrating with him over the phone the day he completed his final sign-off visit with BCITO Training Advisor Michael Smithson.

Jackson hadn’t had any previous flooring experience before he applied for a role at MeasureUp, but he was quick to seize the opportunity to go further when Brian and Jack offered to support him through a formal qualification.

"I was looking for an opportunity to extend my practical skills, and when I was offered the chance to do my qualification, it aligned perfectly with my goals," he says.

Brian, who is Managing Director at MeasureUp Flooring, was impressed with Jackson's dedication from the second he got on the tools.

"Jackson has a forward-thinking approach that extends beyond the physical work. For example, he embraced electronic learning tools early on and quickly became a leader in managing large-scale flooring projects. His calm demeanour has earned him the respect of project managers and site foremen,” says Brian. "Jackson's leadership also shines through with his colleagues. His approachable nature, combined with a strong work ethic, commands respect, and his high standards push everyone around him to excel.”

Jackson is grateful for the support he's received from both his employers and BCITO throughout his apprenticeship.

"I've been lucky to have great mentors in Brian and Jack. Their guidance and trust in my ability have been the foundation of my learning.

"The block courses I took through BCITO were also really beneficial, especially meeting other apprentices across the country. The tutors taught us techniques for situations we don't often encounter on regular job sites, and those tips have been invaluable."

In fact, he’s not done with studying. Now a qualified (and award-winning) flooring professional, Jackson is stepping into a leadership role at MeasureUp, taking on the responsibility of training new apprentices. He's also enrolled in the Construction Trades Supervisor qualification, to help his apprentices be the best they can be.

"The opportunities are endless once you're qualified," he says. "If you're thinking about doing an apprenticeship, go for it. It may seem like a long time, but it goes by fast."

New Zealand needs more talented individuals like Jackson to step into the trades. Whether you're just starting or considering a career change, BCITO offers the training, support, and guidance to help you succeed. To find out more about apprenticeships and qualifications, visit BCITO.