NZCB in the media Whangārei man top apprentice

Whangārei’s Joshua Welsh has won the coveted title of New Zealand’s top apprentice at the NZ Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Challenge.

As well as the title of New Zealand’s top apprentice, Welsh, 27, received a $10,000 prize package from ITM and the Ken Read Memorial Trophy.

The Apprentice Challenge National Final took place at NZCB’s annual conference in Hamilton this month, when 19 regional finalists from across the country competed for the top prize.

Apprentices were judged on examples of their work, dedication towards their apprenticeship, and a presentation to more than 650 NZCB member builders attending the conference.

NZCB chief executive Malcolm Fleming says this year’s nationwide competition was a great opportunity for us to celebrate emerging talent in this crucial sector of the economy,

“With the building industry still experiencing the effects of Covid-19, from material supply issues and labour shortages and also the impacts of climate change, the conference was a chance to reflect on the past year, and share invaluable workshops on topics such as about health and safety, the use of technology and systems to increase efficiency and output,” Fleming said.