Invest in apprenticeships
Taking on apprentices is key to securing the future of the quarrying and mining industry. As trained workers retire, apprentices are essential to meet growing demand and prevent the creation of a skill gap that could impact productivity and quality over time. Taking on unskilled workers and training them up, your way, is a great way to invest in your business, the community, and the wider industry, and ensure you’re prepared for whatever the future has in store.
The MITO team spoke to Wellington Quarries Manager of Belmont Quarry & Petone Sand, Sam Shepherd, about his thoughts on apprentices in the mining and quarrying industry.
(From left): Spencer Benefield, Coralee Panirau, Sam Shepherd (manager), Sam Koopu, and Brian Scott.
What is your role?
I am the person responsible for the safe and profitable operation of the Wellington quarry sites owned by Winstone Aggregates. I have a team of 20 direct reports and numerous contractors. We service the Wellington market with 750,000 – 1,000,000 tons of aggregates every year. Day-to-day tasks include the leadership, management, and administration of all quarry activities and communicating with internal and external stakeholders about the activities of our business.
How many apprentices do you have?
We currently have three apprentices completing the New Zealand Certificate in Mining and Quarrying (Level 2), and we are looking to put other staff members through MITO training. We have also just recently had two team members finish their training: Coralee Panirau and Sam Koopu both completed MITO’s Mining Administration – B Grade Surface Extraction.
What benefits do you see in training apprentices?
It’s great! Having apprentices is an opportunity for our industry to offer people a rewarding career pathway, which supports their safe and effective work activities through structured learning.
What qualities do you look for in an apprentice?
Belmont Quarry and Petone Sand
A drive in someone to achieve and learn. I’m looking for a willingness to commit to a course of study, which can include off-job training in some instances, and a curiosity about what else this industry does.
How have you found the support from MITO?
Our local MITO Training Advisor, Brian Scott, has been excellent in his understanding of our business needs, and the flexibility that we require in training our people.
What advice would you give to other employers in the industry about bringing on apprentices?
Reach out to your local MITO representative to discuss the needs of your business and people. I have found the MITO team helpful, flexible, and willing to put in the work to help apprentices achieve.
List your apprenticeship opportunity or entry-level job on MITO’s Job Hub by 30 January 2025 and you could win a well-deserved lunch for you and your team on us (value up to $500)! T&Cs apply.
For support in finding the right apprentice or entry level applicant for your business, reach out to our MITO Job Brokers at findanapprentice@mito.org.nz
Funding support is available for MITO employers. Click here to find out more.
