NRDA coordinated a Construction and Engineering Tour for Nelson Tasman high school students as a part of the Education to Employment programme to give insights into the career pathways and roles in these industries.
At ITM Frames and Truss, Site Manager Dean gave the run down on the ‘skeleton’ of houses (frame and truss), types of wood used and why, and sustainability practices. Students had a look at what James was up to in his Detailer role involving plans and CAD design.
At ITM Joinery, Paul showed off his clever high performing CNC machines and what they can do – kitchens, stairs, windows, doors, and custom-made items. Students saw the computer work behind the finished products and had a look at the showroom too.
At Fitzgerald Construction’s ‘Hangar’ – where prefab builds are created to completion the site Foreman, Barry showed students the different types of work, such as how to maneuver a one tonne (!) wooden structure and its work progress.
Lastly was Kernohan Engineering where the Innovation Manager, Dryden showed the students around the machine shop and its lathes and drills. They also learnt about the 3D printer and saw various examples of what it can produce.
Eddie and Donna from NMIT joined the tour and informed the students about useful courses in trades and engineering to start their future careers in these industries.
All locations generated informative discussions around work experience opportunities, training, qualifications, apprenticeships and how to approach getting an awesome job with one of these great businesses in the future.
