A Unique Road to Career Success
The road to becoming qualified doesn’t look the same for everyone – this is especially true in the case of Kenneth Basilio. In a journey that spans aircraft maintenance studies, to boat building experience – Kenneth now finds himself a qualified Collision Repair Technician at Owen Shaw Panel and Paint after completing his New Zealand Certificate in Collision Repair (Level 3 and 4) through MITO.
Kenneth, pictured with Aaron Shaw, Director of Owen Shaw Panel and Paint, and MITO Training Advisor, Charlotte Brock.
Originally from the Philippines, Kenneth arrived in New Zealand in 2013, fresh out of aircraft maintenance studies and seeking new opportunities. However, he faced several challenges in securing a job. "English is not my first language, so I struggled to find work. But I knew that when someone finally gave me an opportunity, I would prove what I could do," he says.
Before starting his collision repair apprenticeship, all of Kenneth’s professional experience lay outside the automotive industry. His career in New Zealand began as an electrical transformer assembler, followed by a position as a boat builder—roles that reflected his passion for fixing things. "Ever since I was young, I’ve loved working with my hands. If something is broken, I want to fix it, and once I do, I feel relieved and happy," he shares. This passion steered him once again when he embarked on his collision repair apprenticeship in 2020.
Starting his apprenticeship at the age of 30, Kenneth knew that beginning a new career later in life could come with its own challenges. However, he never let age stand in the way of his success. "I started my collision repair apprenticeship when I was 30, and I finished it when I was 35. It’s never too late for anyone—just believe in yourself," he says, encouraging others considering a career change.
Throughout his journey, Kenneth felt supported by MITO, which played a crucial role in helping him achieve his goals. "I always felt supported by MITO. If I was struggling with paperwork or had a question, they were just a call or email away, and always very helpful," he recalls. This support, coupled with his determination, helped Kenneth complete his apprenticeship and gain the qualifications needed to succeed in his new field.
Today, as a qualified Collision Repair Technician at Owen Shaw Panel and Paint, Kenneth is proud of how far he has come, but his journey isn’t over yet. He aims to complete MITO’s New Zealand Certificate in Collision Repair (Structural) (Level 5) and is excited about the opportunities for growth this will afford him.
Kenneth’s journey is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and lifelong learning—qualities he hopes to pass on to the next generation of collision repair technicians. "One day, I want to teach apprentices—that’s my plan. I want to share my skills and experience with those new to the industry," he says.
