Joint Graduation for Trades Students

The success of industry training steps into the spotlight next Monday (14 May) with a joint graduation.

About 70 students from 18 industry training organisations around Taranaki will attend the graduation ceremony at TSB Showplace.

The graduation is a New Plymouth District Council initiative in partnership with the Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs to recognise the skills of trades graduates and apprentices, and celebrate their academic achievements.

“Our district will always need skilled tradesmen and women so it’s fantastic to see so many people completing their studies and being ready for industries that really need them,” says Mayor Harry Duynhoven.

“I myself started as an apprentice electrician so I have a high regard for the role of the trades in society. Without these skills, everything would rapidly grind to a halt.

“These people have learned valuable skills that will help our district continue to grow and thrive.”

The students’ studies range from carpentry, hairdressing and water reticulation through to horticulture and community support services.

The graduation ceremony will run from 7.00pm to 8.30pm in the Theatre Royal.

• The guest speaker for the event will be Matt Newton, Managing Director and Chief Pilot of Precision Helicopters Ltd, who will share stories from his 25 years in the aviation industry.

• The goal of the Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs is that all young people under 25 are engaged in education, training, work or other activities that contribute to their long-term economic independence and well-being.