“The thing that keeps me motivated is having a plan for the future in my mind. That helps me push through and complete the training that will allow me to develop and try to achieve those long-term goals.”

That approach to apprenticeship training is paying off so far for Ethan Morris, who was recently named Apprentice of the Year at the 2025 Waikato Civil Contractors Awards.

Ethan, an apprentice drainlayer with Schick Construction, is 1.5 years into his NZ Certificate in Pipeline Construction and Maintenance (Level 4) through Connexis. He says winning Apprentice of the Year is an amazing recognition of his training efforts so far.

“It means the world to me, because it proves that all my hard work, long hours, determination, and work ethic have been recognised, not only by my company but by the Waikato,” he says. “It shows me and everyone that if you put your head down, work hard, and try to better yourself every day, you will be able to reap the rewards, and people will start to notice.”

Ethan began his apprenticeship journey through a Gateway programme while still a student at Hamilton Boys’ High School, after attending an open day at Schick and learning more about what the company did.

“The things that appealed to me about drain-laying were being able to operate heavy machinery, which I’d wanted to do since I was a little kid, and being able to learn while working was another big upside for me. Doing an apprenticeship means I can learn, work, and get paid all at the same time, while getting a qualification under my belt that will last a lifetime.”

He adds that the biggest challenge of his training so far has been finding time to stay on top of some of the training bookwork while working long days on the job, but he adds he’s had good support from both Schick and Connexis to keep him on track.

“Connexis has supported me immensely with monthly catch-ups and being able to talk about things we struggled with as well as things we did well with, and any help we need just to be able to complete our bookwork,” says Ethan, adding that having access to other wellbeing services through Connexis “makes the process feel a lot more inviting and makes you, as a student, feel like you matter which helps you benefit by learning”.

A highlight of his training so far has been the opportunity to learn by doing and to meet a wide range of people. He’s also proud to be a part of the Connexis Water Services Apprenticeship Reference Group, a cohort of six current and former Connexis water trainees tasked with discussing legal and logistical issues in the water sector so as to ensure trainees are provided with the most relevant information in their training bookwork.

Now that he’s well into his apprenticeship, Ethan says he also loves being able to work in an environment that is providing a service and helping people has become important to him.

“Helping people have new homes with working drainage, or new roads with working water retention systems, gives me a sense of fulfilment, like I’m giving back and providing for the future,” he says.

“I also like being around so many people who do different jobs within the same industry, like site works, earthworks, and land development; not only being around them, but being able to jump into different activities with them when needed, and being able to learn new skills and change it up every so often.

“With the people you meet in the industry, everyone has different stories and experiences that you can learn from and relate to, which makes the job even better. You have a solid team around you who you can enjoy and have a laugh with while working.”

To others considering an apprenticeship or just starting out on their qualification journey, Ethan’s advice is to try to pursue something that you have a passion for, which will make keeping up with the work/study balance easier. “There are heaps of different apprenticeships out there, and if you’re doing a qualification you have a passion for, it will make it 10 times easier completing the bookwork.

“To keep on top of the bookwork, I’d say put your head down and make the time, whether it’s 15 minutes a day or an hour, because it will benefit you in the long run. Just keep ticking away with it because if you stop, it’s hard to get motivated to start again.

“Civil drain-laying is a trade where if you put the hard yards in, you will be able to reap the rewards, so I highly recommend anyone out there who’s interested or curious to give it a go. It’s not all about live sewage and yucky stuff!”

Ethan’s own professional road map includes ongoing training and a big picture goal of eventually moving into leadership roles.

“Self-development is the key to a good life. All throughout my future life I would like to be training and learning new things.

“After completing my drainage ticket, I’d like to go into a project manager or contract manager position and be able to learn more about the wide variety of this job, rather than just one sector.

“I like the idea of a management role in the future. I’ve always felt like I am a good role model and am good when it comes to helping and organising things. I’d find it really fulfilling to be able to help and guide others to become their best selves.”

The post Top apprentice has his eyes on the future appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

The winners will be announced at the Connexis Excellence Awards Dinner, being held on 23 October at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre. Who will take out the top accolade of Trainee of the Year?

Good luck to all the finalists who are:

Transmission Trainee category:
Dylan Watson, Omexom, Otematata
Callum Fowden, Ventia, Upper Hutt
Dylan Ngahooro, Ventia, Upper Hutt

Generation Trainee category:
Caitlin Manickum, Mercury Ltd, Taupo
Callum Bryant, Genesis Energy Ltd, Tekapo
Fiona Glennie, Meridian Energy, Twizel

Advanced Trainee category:
Gemma Rose, Empowered Technical Services, Ngaruawahia
Mitch van Waelsden, MainPower NZ Ltd, Kaiapoi

Distribution Trainee Category:
Harley Farnham, Buller Networks, Westport
Harvey Mitchell, Ventia NZ Ltd, Hamilton
Hugh Thomson, Counties Energy, Manukau
Tom Anderson, ElectroNet, Greymouth

Traction Line Mechanic category:
Robert Ngawharau, KiwiRail, Auckland.

Contribution to training and development:
Andree Curly James, Ventia NZ Ltd, Auckland
David Haydock, Genesis Energy Ltd, Huntly
Paul Bryant, Genesis Energy, Tekapo

What is Annual Connection?
Annual Connection, managed by Connexis, is an annual three-day competition showcasing and celebrating the skills and expertise of New Zealand’s Electricity Supply Industry (ESI). It sees line mechanic crews and cable jointers from around the country compete in a series of challenges that put their workplace skills to the test.

Connexis Executive Director Kaarin Gaukrodger says the training provider is thrilled to be bringing Annual Connection back to Christchurch, which last hosted the event in 2018.

“Bringing Annual Connection to Christchurch creates a fantastic opportunity to gather our ESI companies centrally in the South Island. There is nothing quite like this event to showcase the skill in our ESI workforce, while demonstrating to the community how rewarding and varied careers in the energy sector can be.

“It will be great to see the different teams, as well as suppliers and supporters, from all over New Zealand gather in Christchurch to test their skills against each other over the three-day competition.”

Annual Connection makes its return to the South Island this year with help from three host companies: Orion, EA Networks, and Connetics Ltd.

The post Connexis Energy Trainee Awards Finalists Announced appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Josh, who received a $500 voucher for a Connexis civil training programme, was praised by judges for his attention to detail during the challenge which involved excavating a swimming pool and completing an ‘Under the Wire Challenge’. The event is designed to test competitors’ knowledge as well as practical skills.

The Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition was held over 14-15 March 2025 at Feilding’s Manfeild Park, as part of Central District Field Days.

Twelve excavator operators competed in a series of challenges over the two-day competition with Northland’s Steven George taking top spot. Steven receives a $1000 voucher for a Connexis civil training programme.

John Rohloff of Fulton Hogan in Bay of Plenty was second, while last year’s runner-up Michael Brown, also of Fulton Hogan, took third place.

This year’s event marked the 31st anniversary of the excavator competition and for the first time featured three female regional champions: Georgia Lyford from Canterbury Westland, Lydia Hill from Nelson Marlborough and Tanya Claxton from Hawke’s Bay East Coast.

Competition challenges included the ‘Over the Wire Challenge’, where operators had to construct ramps of earth to navigate over a wire, and the ‘Connect Challenge’, a jumbo recreation of the classic Connect Four game.

Connexis Executive Director Kaarin Gaukrodger says Connexis was thrilled to support the excavator competitions and the One-Day Job Challenge.

“The excavator competition is a really effective and entertaining way to showcase the skills, knowledge and career opportunities within New Zealand’s civil workforce.

“The skills required to effectively operate an excavator can often be taken for granted so it’s incredible to see the deftness and precision among the competitors as they complete some fun and difficult challenges through the competition.

“Congratulations to Steven, Josh and all the competitors, as well as CCNZ for another brilliant, entertaining and educational event.”

Civil Contractors New Zealand Chief Executive Alan Pollard congratulated all the competitors for their dazzling skills, and Steven on his victory.

“Steven delivered a remarkable performance from start to finish, conquering a formidable course with some tricky new challenges thrown in the mix and a very strong line-up of opposition – it was a real masterclass in precision operating.”

Mr Pollard said the competitors represented the best of the civil construction industry, and their efforts in front of a throng of spectators at Central Districts Field Days helped inspire the next generation to take up the tools to meet the country’s infrastructure needs. 

“The skill on display highlighted why excavator operators are so critical to New Zealand’s development. These men and women do more than just operate machines – they’re skilled professionals whose expertise transforms ideas into the roads, water networks and other vital infrastructure that support the daily lives of Kiwi communities.”

See the full list of winners at www.civilcontractors.co.nz/news

The post Excavating excellence appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

The country’s civil contracting company training trailblazers for 2024 have been recognised at the Connexis Civil Training and Development Awards.

The Connexis-sponsored awards, announced at the annual Civil Contracting NZ (CCNZ) conference held in Invercargill recently, recognised companies which prioritise the training and development of their people through internal training programmes and opportunities to take up nationally recognised qualifications.

The winners for 2024 are:

Category 1 (turnover up to $10M): Odlum Group, Morrinsville

Category 2 (turnover between $10M and $100M): InfraCore, Rotorua

Category 3 (turnover $100M+): HEB Construction, nationwide

Connexis Executive Director Kaarin Gaukrodger said the three winning companies were clear examples of organisations that prioritise industry training to help their people reach their full potential, grow the capability of their organisation and the wider civil infrastructure industry and in doing so building quality infrastructure that will benefit all New Zealanders. 

“We are thrilled to recognise these outstanding winners, and applaud the approach to training demonstrated among the other award finalists and nominees. Their commitment to workforce development through creating a culture of training not only strengthens their own companies but supports the sustainability of the wider infrastructure industry,” Gaukrodger says.

This is the second Connexis Civil Training and Development Award win in a row for HEB Construction in its category, honoured for its holistic approach to growing capability among its people, with an extensive training programme providing work, life and cultural skills.

InfraCore was recognised by the judges for its work with schools in order to develop future potential employees. With a comprehensive structured training programme featuring weekly study groups and mentors for every trainee, all InfraCore’s apprentices have completed a third of their apprenticeship requirements every year.

Odlum Group was also recognised by the judges in particular for its dedication to going beyond the normal to create a strong workplace culture and nurturing team development through internal training.

The awards were judged by CCNZ Vice-President David Howard, Connexis National Field Team Manager Fiona Malloch and Connexis General Manager Customer Engagement Andrew Harland.

“Companies that commit to ongoing training as an essential part of their business development plan are rewarded with a culture of quality work and continuous improvement,” Gaukrodger says. “They have a much better chance of retaining staff with years of skills and experience and they become the employers of choice for those looking to begin or develop careers in the sector.”

Civil Contractors New Zealand Chief Executive Alan Pollard saluted the award winners for their standout contributions to the industry. “These individuals and companies are flag bearers for the civil infrastructure industry, they deserve their chance to shine and we should all join in celebrating their efforts. By lifting their game, they help all of us lift ours.”

The post <strong>Awards recognise top commitment to civil infrastructure training</strong> appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Te Awamutu, October 25, 2024: The future of New Zealand’s electricity supply industry (ESI) looks bright, with the country’s top trainees recognised at an awards ceremony in Waikato.

The Connexis Excellence Awards, recognising the best and brightest trainees in New Zealand’s ESI were named at a ceremony to close the industry’s iconic Annual Connection event with Southland’s Angelo Obus, named overall Trainee of the Year.

Obus, a trainee supply electrician and power systems technician for PowerNet in Invercargill was also named Advance Trainee of the Year. He was nominated by PowerNet for his expert knowledge and skills combined with an ambition to succeed and natural leadership abilities.

Other Excellence Awards winners recognised include:

• Transmission Trainee of the Year, Sage Baucke, Omexom, Auckland
• Distribution Trainee of the Year, Kale Thompson, PowerNet, Invercargill
• Traction Line Mechanic Trainee of the Year, Marciano Rosin, KiwiRail, Auckland
• Investing in Youth Training and Development, Lee Pennock, KiwiRail, Tauranga.

Connexis Executive Director Kaarin Gaukrodger says recognising the talent and hard work of New Zealand’s ESI trainees is important in raising the profile of skills that often go under-appreciated and unseen outside the industry.

“These trainees are the people in charge of electrifying New Zealand as we move the country toward a reduced carbon future.”

Electrifying New Zealand’s economy is a key part of the Government’s plan to grow our economy and reduce emissions to achieve Net Zero 2050.

“We will need a much larger, robust and skilled workforce to achieve that. By shining a light on the expertise of those already in the industry, we can educate a whole new generation of people on the importance of this work and the potential of these careers.”

The Connexis Excellence Awards are a high point of Annual Connection, a three-day celebration of the skills and capability found among New Zealand’s line mechanics and cable jointers. This year’s Annual Connections took place in Te Awamutu, run by Connexis (infrastructure sector training provider), with hosts Waipā Networks and The Lines Company.

The focus of the event is skills competitions between line mechanic crews and cable jointers from around the country. This year’s winning cable jointer is Taylor Simmonds from Omexom in Auckland, and the winning line mechanic team is Top Energy Ltd, from Northland.

Gaukrodger says Annual Connection presents a unique opportunity each year to raise the profile of the electricity supply industry and its work keeping New Zealand connected.

“The event shows off the value this work brings to their local communities to ensure our lives can be healthy and prosperous.

“It is an opportunity, not just to compete but to share knowledge, promote excellence, and connect skilled workers from across New Zealand who will be our industry’s future leaders.

“This year’s event has been a huge success. Huge congratulations to the winners and runners up. It was an intensely fought competition this year, with all competitors demonstrating just how good they are.”

The Lines Company Chief Executive Mike Fox says jointly hosting Annual Connection with Waipā Networks is great demonstration of EDB collaboration. We appreciate the team at Waipā leading the charge.”

“Connexis has put in a massive amount of work behind the scenes to deliver yet another great event. Hats off to their team for the hard work and coordination. The event brings the sector together to demonstrate, and celebrate, the work line mechanics and cable jointers do each day across the country to keep customers connected.”

“The range of expertise from the nine competing teams demonstrates what they do every day to an exceptional standard,” said Fox. “Bringing distribution company employees together showcases the essential work the sector delivers for customers across New Zealand. It also provides for friendly competition and cross-sector camaraderie between line mechanics and cable jointers.” 

Waipā Networks’ Chief Executive Sean Horgan expressed pride in the Waipā Networks team and the training and preparation they put in ahead of the three-day competition.

“It’s been great to be able to host this event and share it with our team, their families and our community,” he says.

“Our field crews have showcased both their talent and trade. They are the ones that do the mahi when a storm takes the power lines down or when our region needs electricity to grow. They represent the best of our industry, and we couldn’t be more proud,” he adds.

For more information, please contact:
Kerri Jackson
Accento Communications
kerri@accento.nz
021430606

Annual Connection competition results:

Cable Jointer Competition:

Line Mechanic Competition:

About Annual Connection – www.annualconnection.co.nz

Annual Connection sees cable jointers and line mechanic teams from energy companies around the country compete over three days and judged across a series of activities designed to test and showcase their skills and expertise. It is organised by Connexis in conjunction with the Electricity Supply Industry and held annually in a different location around the country.

About Connexis – connexis.org.nz

Connexis is a division of Te Pūkenga, New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology. Connexis arranges, delivers, supports, and assesses work-based learning for the infrastructure industries of Civil, Energy, Telecommunications, and Water.

The post <strong>Celebrating the faces of New Zealand’s energy future</strong> appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

The awards recognise employers who have embedded training across their businesses, creating career pathways for their workers, and improving capabilities in the civil industry.

Congratulations to our finalists:

Winners will be announced at the award ceremony at the CCNZ conference on the 5th of August.

To read more about the nomination process earlier in the year, click here.

The post Civil Industry Award Finalists Announced appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.

Fulton Hogan Christchurch won the award for companies with a turnover of more than $100m thanks to its efforts in benchmarking its in-house training, cadetship programmes and professional pathways to the relevant New Zealand Certificates and qualifications – an industry first.

Christchurch’s Isaac Construction featured heavily again, winning the ‘Turnover $10 million – $100 million’ category in the Connexis Company Training and Development Awards for the third year running thanks to detailed ongoing professional development plans for all 300 staff working across the business and the employment of a full-time Training and Development Manager.

Construction Contracts Limited also continued to shine in the Company Training and Development Awards, winning the award for companies with an annual turnover up to $10m thanks to incorporating nationally recognised qualifications into staff professional development, training offices, and other purpose-built facilities to help staff learn and develop their skills. The Wellington-based company also won this category in 2016.

Connexis is the national Infrastructure Industry Training Organisation (ITO) and provides employers with tools to attract and train infrastructure staff. Chief Executive Toby Beaglehole said it was heartening to see employers demonstrating commitment to excellence in training and development.

“Connexis is incredibly proud to be the sponsor of the Company Training and Development awards. Connexis is all about people, and these awards recognise outstanding companies that go the extra mile to invest in their people.

“At a time when a skilled workforce is in high-demand, it is heartening to see companies both help our industry address the skills shortage and cultivate and grow their own talented staff”.

Construct Civil of Auckland featured as a runner-up in the $10m-$100m category, earning an honourable mention for establishing a culture in which all staff have ongoing professional development plans which include qualifications and staff are supported outside of the workplace.

Downer New Zealand was runner-up in the over $100m category for its innovative training approach, piloting many new training programmes throughout the year, while Manawatu’s Blackley Construction was runner-up in the up to $10m category for heavy investment in staff professional development, with more than 40 per cent of staff carrying out training under the national Civil Trades apprenticeship and career pathway programmes.

Civil Contractors New Zealand Chief Executive Peter Silcock said efforts to support and develop staff within civil construction businesses were vitally important at a time when the civil construction industry was experiencing skills shortages.

“New Zealand needs to develop its future workforce to build quality infrastructure that connects our communities and provides vital services for our people. These companies have shown outstanding commitment to their staff. That deserves recognition.”

Connexis Company Training and Development Awards Winners 2019

Turnover of more than $100 million: Fulton Hogan Christchurch

Turnover of between $10 million and $100 million: Isaac Construction

Turnover up to $10 million: Construction Contracts Limited

Source: Civil Contractors New Zealand

The post Civil construction’s top training initiatives named appeared first on Connexis | Infrastructure Training.