The Carpentries community is growing in New Zealand as more institutions host Software and Data Carpentry workshops. These workshops are free, but participants must abide by the Carpentries Code of Conduct.
Steven is a UCOL teacher at Palmerston North and relocates to Turangi each week to teach the full-time pre-trades carpentry course. He hopes the 26 students will finish ready to take up apprenticeships.
Qualifications
Qualified carpenters build and repair structures like buildings, bridges and houses. They use a variety of materials including timber, concrete and steel to lay foundations, erect framing and apply cladding. They also fit out interiors and complete renovations. They can work on any kind of building, from residential homes and theatres to historic buildings and hospitals. Other responsibilities include assessing risks and liaising with other tradespeople.
The New Zealand Certificate in Carpentry Level 4 is a practical and project-based qualification for people starting out in their construction careers. It is delivered through an apprenticeship and includes theory and practical NZQA unit standards.
Applicants must be employed in the construction industry and be supervised by a licensed builder who is prepared to support their training. Applicants who are international learners whose first language is not English must have an IELTS Academic score of at least 5.5 and provide TOEFL scores if necessary. This course is based at Unitec, Te Pukenga and is full-time with Student Allowances and zero fees for eligible learners*.
Work environment
Migrant carpenters face a number of challenges in their work environment. Often, they must adapt to new practices and languages in order to succeed at their jobs. It’s important that they keep a close network of contacts in the industry to help them build their careers and achieve their goals. These relationships can help them reduce risk and build their reputations.
It’s also vital that the work environment is safe and healthy for workers. This includes adequate lighting and ventilation, as well as a place to rest if necessary. The right work environment can improve employee morale and boost productivity.
Whether you’re working on a large housing project or a small family-run furniture business, the right work environment will allow you to develop your skills and grow your career. The more you specialise in a certain field, the higher your salary will be. For example, if you specialise in woodworking, you can earn a higher salary than someone who only does construction work.
Skills required
During your time as a carpenter you will need to develop strong problem-solving skills. This could include identifying and addressing issues with structures, fittings, or frameworks. You will also need to interpret blueprints and make adjustments accordingly. Your attention to detail is crucial, especially when completing finishing tasks.
The role of a carpenter is to construct, install, and repair frames for houses, walls, roofs, windows, and doors. They may also be responsible for assessing and repairing existing wooden structures. They must be able to interpret blueprints and ensure all work meets safety requirements.
If you want to learn the trade of carpentry Auckland, it is a good idea to find a training provider. A registered training organisation (RTO) will help you develop your skills and gain qualifications that will enable you to start working in the industry. They offer full-time study programmes and apprenticeships. You can also attend free workshops and training courses to boost your skills.
Training options
If you’re interested in a career as a carpenter, there are a number of training options available. Some courses combine classroom learning with practical work at your workplace. Others offer the chance to take part in community-building projects, like building a house on campus. In addition, you can participate in Software Carpentry workshops, often run at University of Auckland by volunteers and instructors. These workshops are free and based on the open source teaching materials of the Carpentries. However, workshop participants are required to abide by the Carpentries Code of Conduct.
This level 3 qualification is ideal for people new to the industry, or those wanting a head start on their apprenticeship. It covers health and safety, basic construction skills, trade mathematics, hand tools, and project work related to different aspects of the construction industry. You’ll also gain experience working as an entry-level construction site worker or in pre-cut factory roles, which can assist with gaining an apprenticeship.