Persistence Pays Off: Daena Stephenson Builds Her Own Path To A Carpentry Career

"I always had a desire to build, having watched my father construct multiple homes. It was a dream of mine to learn the craft and one day build my own home," she says.

"I really wanted to work outdoors and in an environment with a lot of variety.”

When Daena was unsuccessful in her applications to become a building apprentice fresh out of school, she put her focus on picking up useful skills that would help her achieve her dream.

"I decided to get some experience in practical roles that would help me secure a building apprenticeship, so I became a painter. Years later, I was working as a team leader for a painting company when I saw a vacancy for a building apprenticeship. I applied and got an apprenticeship with a great company," she continues.

Daena's days are now spent doing the work she had long dreamed of doing, at Livingstone Building.

"I am employed as a building apprentice through BCITO and predominantly work in the commercial building sector. I do a variety of work including foundations, wall and roof framing, hardware, interior joinery, wall cladding, flooring and lining...the list goes on."

"I get great satisfaction out of finishing a job and standing back and thinking, 'I did that'. I’m constantly learning, and the construction industry is forever evolving."

Recognised as someone with huge leadership potential, thanks to her previous experience, Daena has also been selected to join BCITO’s Apprentice Leader Programme as a learner voice for the Commercial Carpentry sector.

"I attend advisory group meetings and workshops alongside other apprentice leaders who come from different trades, ethnic backgrounds, and age groups. We share experiences and discuss how to overcome learner issues and barriers, and give feedback to BCITO’s National Advisory Group," Daena explains.

She was recently awarded Special Merit in the Apprentice Excellence Award category at the National Association of Women in Construction Excellence Awards.

Daena credits her discipline, drive, and confidence to her boxing background, and would also love to become a licenced boxing coach.

"I spent 10-plus years boxing and competing. As a young person, I was extremely shy, and I felt like boxing gave me an outlet, purpose, and goals. I would love to pass on my skills and knowledge to help others who may need some direction and be a supportive figure who can encourage them to do great things."

When asked what advice she would give to someone passionate about building but facing initial setbacks, Daena emphasises perseverance and seeking support.

"I would say to persevere and to expect challenges along the way and remind them there is always light at the end of the tunnel. I would tell them not to be afraid to ask for advice or support because it’s available if they need it. Some examples could be approaching your trade Apprentice Leader, NAWIC, your BCITO Training Advisor, Mates in Construction, EAP services, or there is a massive building and construction community on Instagram, where people support each other."

If you’d like to know more about BCITO’s Apprentice Leader programme and how to be involved, please contact info@bcito.org.nz.