Pursuing the dream
Drew Tuisamoa knew he wanted to work in the motor industry - but it was only when he became a MITO apprentice that he discovered it was the best way for him to achieve his dream.
The 22-year-old motorsport enthusiast originally enrolled for a mechanical engineering degree at university. However, within six months he realised that the academic approach wasn't for him. He looked around for a more practical approach, and soon discovered it at the Goodyear Auto Service Centre in Hornby, Christchurch. He's now studying for a National Certificate in Motor Industry (Automotive Engineering) and loving every minute of it.
"It was really important for me to get a qualification - in fact it was the main reason I wanted the job," says Drew. "Having something that's internationally recognised is a great start in my career; it will enable me to travel and work, and give me more credibility with employers."
Drew also likes the ‘earn while you learn' approach, as well as the variety of his work.
"I'm an apprentice, technician and general helping hand," he laughs. "That means I get to do tyre fitting and wheel alignment, servicing and reception work, while learning a lot from the experienced technicians here. It's a great environment - a small team, a great boss, and the opportunity to meet new people every day."
As for the study, Drew says he's keen to get it done - and will probably start on MITO's ATech® qualification when he's finished.
"I don't know what the future will bring, but for the moment this is definitely what I want to do."
Drew is one of two apprentices employed by the Goodyear Auto Service Centre's branches in Hornby and Shirley. Owner Paul Robertson says he's a rare find, with all the qualities he looks for in an apprentice.
"He's kind, courteous and willing to learn," he says. "He also has a brilliant work ethic for his age - he's on the ball, has the initiative to work unsupervised, and is passionate about doing the job right. He's bright, motivated and great to deal with."
Paul's always been committed to offering apprenticeships. "It's the only way to go," he says. "If we don't do it, we won't have any skilled technicians in New Zealand.
"Apprentices are good for business, especially as they bring in new diagnostic skills and techniques that mean we can keep up with changing vehicle technologies. We need skilled, not semi-skilled, workers who'll pick up the reins in future. So we'll do everything we can to help, including sending our apprentices to off-job training programmes so they can learn skills that we can't offer them here."
Paul mentions that apprenticeships can also be the key to employee retention.
"If you look after your employees and give them opportunities like apprenticeships, you're more likely to hold on to them, at least for a couple of years. Many young people go on to do their OEs, but it's surprising how many come back to their old jobs."
Paul works closely with the local MITO Industry Training Advisor, Peter Currie, to ensure his apprentices get the support they need. Peter visits about once a month, commenting that Drew is "doing brilliantly".
"He's very keen and capable, and meeting all his milestones," he says. "With the wide range of vehicles that Goodyear services, he's in a good position to gain great skills for his future."
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