Calling all carpentry apprentices to take part in challenge

Carpentry apprentices can test their skills in an apprentice challenge. Photo / File

Do you have some slick carpentry skills and want to put them to the test?

NZ Certified Builders (NZCB) is calling for carpentry apprentices nationwide to compete and demonstrate their skills in the 2019 NZCB Apprentice Challenge, in association with ITM.

The competition will be held in 18 regions across the country on Saturday April 6, and is open to apprentices employed by current NZCB builders or enrolled with Industry Training Association Building (ITAB).

All apprentices who take part in the regional Apprentice Challenges will receive a prize pack.

Further prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place-getters, and the regional winner will progress to the national final held in Christchurch in June, where they will compete for the Ken Read Memorial Trophy and $50,000 worth of prizes.

A week prior to the regional Apprentice Challenge events, competitors will be advised of the project they are to build, and will be given eight hours to complete it on the day.

To complete the build, apprentices will be provided with durable, trade-quality timber and materials, and their structures must meet minimum safety standards.

Apprentices' final projects will be scored by a panel of experienced building practitioners and industry educators, who will be assessing a range of building elements, including quality of the craftsmanship, assembly, ability to work to a detailed plan, safe working technique and time management.

Apprentices can enter here. Entries must be received by March 25.

The NZCB Apprentice Challenge is held in association with the Industry Training Association Building (ITAB), with support from ITM and Apprenticeship Scholarship Trust (AST).

Locations hosting a NZCB Apprentice Challenge: Whangarei, Auckland, Gisborne, Tauranga, Hamilton, Taupō, Napier, Palmerston North, New Plymouth, Masterton, Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch, Timaru, Greymouth, Cromwell, Dunedin and Invercargill.