Stellar skills send Jack Nevines to Apprentice of the Year win
When Jack Nevines left university at 18, he found himself at a crossroads, questioning his next steps. Fast forward to today, at 23, Jack has completed his carpentry apprenticeship with BCITO, a business division of Te Pūkenga, and recently clinched the prestigious title of National Apprentice of the Year at the twentieth Registered Master Builders Apprentice of the Year competition.
Jack's journey into the trades began with BCITO, Te Pūkenga after realising that the traditional academic route wasn't for him.
“I started out attending university, but it didn't take long for me to realise it wasn't for me. I preferred a practical, hands-on job. Since I started my apprenticeship, I realised that building was the right choice for me,” he says.
Jack’s employer Ross Faulkner, of Faulkner Construction, played an integral role in his rise to the top. Ross encouraged Jack to re-enter Apprentice of the Year after he placed third at the Auckland Regional competition.
"I felt incredibly proud of Jack’s success. It is a huge endorsement to Jack’s talents, and this reflects on all our tradesmen that have been involved in his training over the last three years," Ross says proudly.
Jack acknowledges the intense physical and mental pressure he faced during the six-and-a-half-hour-long practical component of the national competition.
His ability to rise to the challenge is a testament to Faulkner Construction’s team and the effectiveness of BCITO's comprehensive training programme, which equips apprentices to thrive in high-stakes environments.
However, Jack demonstrates typical humility when he reflects on his victory, acknowledging the talent of the other apprentices.
“They’re all great people. The competition itself was a blast, and I am proud of the work that we do. It was great to showcase it to industry professionals."
Jack also acknowledges BCITO played a crucial role throughout his apprenticeship, citing the great technical and industry knowledge he received from his advisor, Stephen Nicholson. BCITO’s online learning platform, introduced during Jack’s apprenticeship, was a valuable resource for refreshing his knowledge, testing himself on various standards and preparing for the competition.
"My advisor, Stephen Nicholson, was super supportive and he encouraged me to re-enter the competition as well. He gave me tips throughout the submission and interview process that were hugely valuable,” says Jack.
Jack's success is proof of what can happen when you bring together keen apprentices, supportive employers, and the resources and support systems provided by BCITO, delivering skilled, competent, and passionate building professionals who are shaping the future of the country
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