An impressive four individuals and companies from Hawke's Bay have secured a spot on the list of finalists in this year's National Training Awards run by the Forest and Wood Industry Training Organisation (FITEC).
In his sixth year working in the wood manufacturing industry, Cameron Kirby of Napier's Pacific Wood Productssaid he loved the challenge of his job and was often called upon to run the nightshift as supervisor.
He said his ability to perform at such a high level was a result of his training.
"My apprenticeship has helped me with patience when it comes to doing new templates and products," he said.
"It's been a hard road but Wendy [training adviser] from FITEC helped me along the way and kept me enthused."
Racheal Traill of Wairoa's East Coast Lumber easily matches the boys, loading her own logs with a 30-tonne digger and operating the 20-tonne Volvo wheel loader.
She said she was over the moon with the nomination, but her reaction showed she was a team player.
"It wouldn't have been possible without the support of my awesome bosses and team," she said.
Hasting's Logged On Logging was formed in 2007. Owner and Director Robbie Hagen said training and career development boosted production and increased morale.
"Training is our commitment to the industry and to our employees," he said.
Hemi Poutu of HP Training in Napier said she got inspiration from seeing people progress, "especially ones that don't have a job".
Winners of the FITEC National Training Awards will be announced at a gala dinner and awards ceremony at the Rotorua Energy Events Centre on September 7. FITEC FINALISTS Cameron Kirby of Pacific Wood Products Ltd, Napier: Modern Apprentice of the Year - Wood Manufacturing.
Racheal Traill of Wairoa's East Coast Lumber Ltd: Modern Apprentice of the Year - Wood Manufacturing.
Logged On Logging Ltd, Hastings: Trainee Company of the Year - Forestry.
Hemi Poutu of HP Training Ltd, Napier - FITEC Training Leader of the Year.
