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Cultivating rural talent through apprenticeships at SNT PART OF THE NZ HERALD NETWORK
AUGUST 2022
Cultivating rural talent through apprenticeships at SNT
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There is a lot to like about apprenticeships. They let people work and earn as they learn. In addition to earning a pay check from day one, apprentices benefit from the expertise and guidance of a mentor on the job, in their field, who monitors and supports their progress. Stevenson & Taylor Ltd (SNT) currently have eight workers completing apprenticeships across the range of departments, Small Motors, Retail, Diesel Mechanic and Engineering. While some begin their apprenticeships right out of high school, SNT have also had older existing staff members on the team take up apprenticeships. The apprenticeship programs reward graduates with well-regarded industry recognised qualifications. Blake Harrison who recently completed his National Certificate in Engineering says “Apprenticeships are great because they combine practical on the job learning with theoretical study and training. I’ve got people around me I can ask whenever I need to.” As an employer that needs to fill positions SNT believes it benefits from tapping into the local talent pool in rural areas through apprenticeship programs. This also means local guys can train and stay in their home community. Developing local talent and our existing employees means the skills and qualifications are tailored to our business needs which supports our business and the surrounding rural community. It means SNT can cultivate, retain and promote local talent to meet local needs. It also means CHB families don’t have to watch their young people move away for work or further education.
It’s a win-win says SNT General Manager Robby Smith. “We get highly motivated people who are building their skills and experience. At Stevenson & Taylor we believe our people are our greatest asset. To offer a growing range of brands and services like diesel/ tractor, engineering, outdoor equipment, sales, parts and servicing you need the expertise to back it up.” SNT is keen to maintain their support of locals. “As one of the larger employers in the area it’s what we do,” Robby says. It starts with annual participation in a CHB secondary school Careers Pursuit day to give young people interactive activities and information to help them with their career choices. Supporting apprenticeships for people who want to learn and earn more while staying close to home is important. Our apprentices are fortunate have access to the Central Hawke’s Bay District Council apprentice support workshop initiative held weekly at The Knowledge and Learning Hub with support from some Industry Training Advisors. With the growth of the Central Hawke’s Bay population and increasing numbers of younger working families in the area, it makes sense to keep growing local talent.
Blake Harrison (Centre) receiving his National Certificate in Engineering – Fabrication and Heavy Fabrication from SNT GM Robby Smith and SNT Engineering Manager Paul Harrison.
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