A hands-on career development approach

NZA champions future builders, roofers, joiners and bricklayers in their career journey. With decades of experience in connecting apprentices to the industry, they have become a trusted link between learners and employers across the country.

Nicole Niederer, NZA’s South Island business and administration manager, says that a key part of their work is matching the right apprentices with the right builders. “It’s about fitting the right people into the right placements,” Nicole says. “We are providing something new to the industry. Our approach supports both employers and learners from the very beginning.”

The journey to build these connections has taken decades, and it has been guided by a commitment to fostering strong relationships with industry partners. Still, opportunities can be limited. Many young people apply for apprenticeships, but there are only a finite number of spots available. “We can’t help everyone, and that’s a big issue,” Nicole says.

NZA focuses on equipping applicants with the foundational skills that make them more competitive for available placements. Nicole suggests that workers complete a trade course and establish basic skills first, such as using power tools and meeting health and safety standards.

NZA also recognises that tertiary education isn’t the right path for everyone. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to entering the workforce. The organisation is committed to supporting young people who are better suited to practical trade careers, offering guidance, training, and mentorship to help them reach their full potential. “Any way we can support, we should,” Nicole says.

Becoming a host business offers employers a unique opportunity to shape the next generation of tradespeople while also benefiting their own teams. Hosting apprentices allows businesses to train individuals in line with their own standards and culture, helping develop skilled workers who are already familiar with the company’s way of working.

It also strengthens industry connections and enhances the business’s reputation as a supporter of career pathways. For companies looking to invest in long-term talent, hosting an apprentice is not only a contribution to the wider trade sector but also a strategic business decision that can bring lasting value. Visit https://www.nza.org.nz/ for more information.