Engineering trades - the 'visible invisible' career pathways

From high-performance titanium sailing T-foils to fabricated bridges, speaker systems, metal sculptures and even sleep apnoea masks – the work of engineers influences every aspect of modern life.

Often dubbed our “most visible, invisible industry,” engineering trades offer diverse career opportunities, but are often overlooked in favour of building, plumbing and electrical trades. As Competenz National Manager Career Development Lisa Reid explains, there are lots of opportunities for those willing to broaden their horizons.

“Engineering trades are often the forgotten trades in schools but New Zealand is crying out for skilled engineers,” says Lisa. “We have a massive skills shortage, and every school leaver who is considering going into a trade should be adding engineering to their shortlist.”

Engineering and related trades cover 11 different specialisations – fabrication, mechanical engineering, general engineering, fitting and machining, maintenance engineering, toolmaking, fire protection, mechanical building services, refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC), locksmithing and dairy systems.

“There are so many different pathways, making it a compelling option for any student that’s keen to work with their hands and likes figuring out how things work. School leavers interested in a building career should look at engineering trades – building things with metal instead of wood. If they’re considering an electrical apprenticeship, we’d encourage them to look at RAC, which has a strong electrical component, and is an excellent recession-proof trade.”

Simon Smith, branch manager at leading refrigeration business CoSell, hopes more principals, teachers and careers advisors recognise the importance of engineering trades like RAC and promote them more actively as career paths for school leavers.

"Refrigeration is a ‘ghost’ trade and exposure of the trade to potential apprenticeships at school level would add value and depth to our industry resource issue," says Simon.

Steve Powell, General Manager of Hobsonville-based steel fabricator BSM, is another advocate. He has played a pivotal role in connecting high school students to potential careers in fabrication engineering, helping to ensure that New Zealand develops the skills we need for the future.

“Many young people have no idea what opportunities are available in the big wide world,” says Steve. “By collaborating with Competenz and schools we can meet with a group of young people and explain what we are about, helping them realise that there’s more to trades than just building, electrical and plumbing opportunities.”

Competenz challenges the view that trades are a fallback option for those not excelling academically. They offer clear pathways to fulfilling careers, in innovative, future-focussed, and growing sectors.

“A key benefit for students while completing an apprenticeship is they earn while they learn, which means no debt when they graduate,” adds Lisa. “Graduates are in demand and have several pathways open to them, including entrepreneurship.”