Competition boosts skills of apprentices

BUILD: Matt Booth, last year's regional winner. PHOTO: RENEE CLAYTON

Last year's regional winner of the Registered Master Builders Carters Apprentice of the Year is encouraging others to step forward.

Entries are now open until June 9 for the annual competition.

Carpentry apprentices from around the country are being called to show off their talent and passion for the trades in the competition that could win them a share of more than $100,000 in prizes and the next title.

Excel Builders carpenter Matt Booth was crowned the winner of the Central North Island Master Builders Carters last year and said the experience was fantastic.

"I absolutely encourage people to enter. It is a great experience and gave me the opportunity to show my skills and what my boss had taught me."

Entries for Apprentice of the Year have been steadily increasing. Last year's competition saw 145 apprentices compete for the coveted title.

"Don't become overwhelmed by it and just give it a crack," Mr Booth said. "I went in with hardly anything and came out with a lot. I am now taking on more responsibility at work and know a lot more about the job."

Mr Booth won regionals and came in second in the national competition.

For more information visit www.apprenticeoftheyear.co.nz. For apprentices, employers and young people aspiring to be part of the construction industry visit www.facebook.com/apprenticeoftheyear.