Six weeks of school visits, expos and industry partnerships across the country, sparking the next generation's interest in trade pathways.

Competenz continues to invest in connecting the next generation of high school students with rewarding careers in manufacturing, mechanical and engineering trades.

This year, our team has worked closely with careers advisors and teachers at schools across Canterbury, including Ashburton College and Christchurch Boys' High School. We also attended the Kaiarahi CATE NZ expo in Nelson, with further events held across the North Island.

This work is backed by some of New Zealand's leading manufacturers. Companies such as HamiltonJet, Dawn Aerospace, Rx Plastics, Sutton Tools and WYMA Solutions work alongside Competenz, using our apprenticeship training material to help young people understand what a career in manufacturing and engineering really looks like.

What we consistently see is the moment a student's thinking shifts. A hands on demonstration, a question answered by someone working in the industry, or simply seeing what a modern manufacturing workplace looks like. These moments plant the idea that a trade or apprenticeship is a genuine, respected career choice, not a fallback option.

That shift matters more than ever. Ministry of Education figures show the number of apprentices nationally fell by 9.9 percent in 2024, continuing a downward trend from the 2022 peak. Sparking interest early, while students are still at school and weighing up their options, is one of the most effective ways to address that shortfall over time.

Through these school visits, expos and industry partnerships, Competenz is helping shape the bright young minds who will become tomorrow's skilled workforce, ensuring New Zealand's manufacturing and engineering sectors have the people they need to grow.

Competenz remains committed to supporting both the education and industry sectors as we work toward that future.

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