The top three apprentices from the Bay of Plenty have been announced for the 2022 Registered Master Builders' CARTERS Apprentice of the Year competition.

Building apprentice, Vishal Toi Toi, from Tauranga, was named the Bay of Plenty and Central Plateau 2022 Registered Master Builders' CARTERS Apprentice of the Year.

The 26-year-old was trained through BCITO and is employed by 90 Degrees Construction.

'Vishal's passion and enthusiasm for his job really shone through,” the judges say.

'He demonstrated a positive attitude and willingness to learn, enabling him to acquire the fundamental skills required to be a good builder. He has developed great self-management skills and is able to think critically to achieve his goals.

'Co-running his site has given Vishal the valuable opportunity of managing a build from start to finish, teaching him the skills of planning, people, and time management.”

Tapiwa Chikono, from Tauranga (Finelines Construction), took out second place.

The judges describe Tapiwa as being driven, motivated, and a clear communicator.

They say his positive attitude towards learning and improving his craft is already paying off.

'He has been recognised by being given a leadership role by his senior builder.

'By being more accountable, Tapiwa has acquired a greater awareness of his work. It has also taught him confidence, management and leadership skills.

'This award is just recognition of Tapiwa's motivated approach and hard work. This experience will prove invaluable in his future as a qualified builder.”

Rounding out third is Josh Jarvis, from Tauranga (90 Degrees Construction).

'Josh is a skilled apprentice who takes pride in the quality of his work. He is always striving to improve his skills and take on new challenges and responsibilities,” the judges say.

'Josh's leadership role on a new build has taught him valuable skills like planning, clear communication, and balancing time management with quality workmanship.

'Embracing the challenge and believing in his own abilities has given Josh the confidence to take control and improve his overall skillset.

'Josh's determination to deliver a quality product bodes well for a promising future for him in the building industry.”

The Apprentice of the Year competition recognises excellence among carpentry apprentices and raises awareness of career opportunities in the building and construction industry. The competition tests our future sector leaders' project management, business, presentation, and practical skills.

For the regional competition, each apprentice had to submit details of a building project they are working on as well as take part in a two-hour practical challenge. The top 10 participants from each region then progressed to an interview stage with a judging panel and an onsite visit to discuss their building project in detail.

The top apprentice from each region will now go on to compete in the national competition. This includes a 45-minute interview with the national judging panel and an additional six-hour practical skills test.

For more information about the competition, visit https://www.apprenticeoftheyear.co.nz/