From apprentice to advisor

Get to know Luke Van den Bos

Luke Van den Bos has a remarkable track record, having completed two apprenticeships: the National Certificate in Plastics Processing Technology (Level 4) and the National Certificate in Engineering and Technology (Plastics Engineering) (Level 4). His dedication and skills were recognised in 2004 when he was awarded Plastics Apprentice of the Year.

His career spans 33 countries and various engineering roles, enriching his expertise and global perspective.

As a Competenz training advisor, Luke mentors apprentices across diverse fields, including plastics, fabrication, mechanical engineering, and locksmithing. His deep understanding of the apprenticeship process, shaped by his own mentors, helps him guide the next generation of skilled professionals

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What draws you to engineering and fabrication?

I have a passion for engineering, manufacturing and fabrication. I have always enjoyed pulling stuff apart, fixing and rebuilding things. I love the brainstorming involved and bringing things back to life. 

How has coming from this environment helped you be a mentor to apprentices?

I was fortunate to have some amazing mentors during my time and I understand the importance of this and the difference it can really make to apprentices.  

I try to explain to my learners that an apprenticeship is about more than just getting a trade. An apprenticeship shows future employers that a person can commit to training, they can be trained, and are on the first stepping stone in a career which can guide them into a number of exciting directions.  

What is something few people know about you?

I have been lucky to cheat life twice! The first escape happened while I was visiting Thailand and during this holiday, I was wiped out by the Boxing Day tsunami. The second close call happened while I was watching the Isle of Man TT, an annual motorcycle race, from the sidelines. A motorbike traveling at 280 km per hour collided with me.

These ‘live to tell’ experiences put a different perceptive on life, and I try and appreciate the time I have, to make the most of things. I’ve learnt not to stress about the small things in life.

What are the biggest challenges facing your apprentices at the moment?

Finding time to balance their online theory assessments with their apprenticeship can be a challenge. Apprentices often struggle to find study time outside of their work, social life, family, and sports commitments.

What career advice would you give your younger self?

I left school at 15 before gaining School Certificate (NCEA Level 1). A condition of completing my apprenticeship was to attend night school as an adult to achieve School Certificate in Maths and English. I have no regrets as it prepared me to balance work and study as an adult, which is crucial part of an apprenticeship. 

If you were a school leaver again, what do you recommend first – to travel or to sign up to an apprenticeship?

I’m glad I completed my apprenticeship prior to traveling. If doing an OE is your thing, complete your trade prior to heading out and exploring the world. Even if you have a career change later in life your trade will always give you something to fall back on and a safety net if required. 

How do you like to spend your weekends?

I enjoy family time with my two young sons, working on my motorbike, and socialising with friends.

 What advice will you give your kids when they are choosing a career path?

Not to rush into it. Pick something that interests you. Before embarking on an apprenticeship, spend at least a year in the industry to get a feel for the work and if it is what they would like to proceed with.  

You are an award-winning photographer! Tell us about this photo titled Aqua Burst.

“Aqua Burst” made the top 50 in the Sony World Photography Awards in 2015. It captures the exact moment a water balloon bursts, with the broken balloon visible in the splash.

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