The number of students enrolled in Level 4 mechanics at Weltec quadrupled over two years when it offered night classes in addition to their on-the-job learning.
The change means WelTec’s managed apprenticeship mechanic students could learn and earn at work during the week and complement this with evening classes.
“It is about continuing to bridge the gap between the world of study and the world of work,” WelTec automotive engineering programme manager Phill Mudgway says.
“But, it does require a big commitment from students who have to perform at a full time job where they are also still learning the ropes, and attend a night class once a week over three years to get their quals. We seem to have hit the nail on the head though, as the response from employers, and our students, is that we have the right mix.”
First year automotive engineering managed apprenticeship student Deborah Nunns says she considered studying medicine but wanted to get into the workforce faster and without a large student loan.
“I had always been interested in cars because I spent a lot of time with my Dad, who was a mechanic and tinkered from our home in Karori, so studying engines and welding and stuff like that at WelTec was perfect for me,” says Nunns, who is employed at Capital City Motors.
Capital City Motors Wellington service manager Tony McDonald says the benefit of employing
students who are on a managed apprenticeship is that they already have some knowledge.
Lower Hutt AA Auto Centre head mechanic Greg Maraku says there are not enough people in the country with the relevant qualifications so they often employ people from overseas.
“WelTec is a good institution and has moved with the times it has gone away from teaching old fashioned mechanics that no-one uses anymore,” says Maraku. “So I am happy to employ young people from there and help them through their quals.”
