Learning curves in the fencing industry

Twelve months ago, no-one could have foreseen what the world would be facing in the year ahead. It could be argued however that rural NZ has fared reasonably well during the lockdowns and other challenges COVID-19 has brought. Rightly so too, as we are a food producing nation and people need to eat.

The service sector however was affected. Fencing is part of that and even though many fencing businesses were able to keep working at some level, many were not. Fortunately, with all the new government “shovel ready” projects, the new waterway accord and the usual farm fencing that happens, rural NZ fencing contractors have bounced back and are busier than they have ever been. With that growth however comes the issue of being seriously short staffed. Fencing Contractors New Zealand (FCNZ) has worked hard to put a full learning pathway in place. Anyone, from young school leavers to career changers, can become a fully qualified fencer in a relatively short period of time and with high demand for quality staff there are plenty of employment opportunities for those that want it. A modern Level 3 NZQA qualification has successfully been running for a number of years, with a revised Level 4 to be rolled out later this year. With a NZ Diploma in Primary Industries Business Management (Level 5) also on offer from mid-2021, there are boundless opportunities for new and existing fencers to up their game. Also, to help fencing contractors improve and update their skill level, FCNZ runs “Best Practise” days around the regions each year. Best Practise days are a great opportunity to learn new techniques, share your skills with others, pick up tips for running a business, polish up on health and safety, catch up with industry leaders and trade professionals as well as having a yarn with other fencers you may not have seen for a while or those you may never have met. These days are a great opportunity for farmers to come along, see what’s new in the industry and what aspects of fence line construction you should be requiring from your fencing contractor.

| Best Practise days are run each year around the country for those wanting to improve their skills.

FCNZ’s Best Practise Days coming up:

Central Southland: 12th April, Benmore North Otago: 14th April, Palmerston

Best Practise Days are a must attend event. Remember to add them to your calendar and watch out for further details as they become available. Updates will be available on the FCNZ website www.fcanz.co.nz, the FCNZ Facebook page and through in-store promotion at your local Farmlands store. The FCNZ Board is working hard to bring new ideas to the industry and has a great line-up of events this year. Including the conference in Paihia, which promises to be something special. So, make sure you watch out for details as they come to hand. We can’t wait to see you all at these events during the year.

Article supplied by FCNZ