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This weekend we were down in Wellington running another 2 Block Courses. Thanks to those apprentices that attended, and to Mike and Tony for running

CHRISTCHURCH BLOCK COURSES Last weekend our tutors were on the road to Christchurch. A big thanks to Mike and Tony for braving the cold (both

We have some exciting news for our Rangatahi, who are looking for a career but not sure where to start Click on the link below

We would like to give a huge “CONGRATULATIONS” to our own Hayley Claridge for gaining the Northland Collision Repair Association Scholarship for 2022. Keep up

Yet another busy weekend of Block Courses, this time Pukekohe and Napier. Thank you to all those that attended, we know weekends can be tricky

We love sharing “Good news stories,” with you all, about our Smart Trade Solutions programmes, and this one is awesome. Thanks to Stephen Joe,

Doug is 68 of Ngatikuri and Te Rarawa descent, presently living in Kaitaia where he was born and educated. After leaving school he completed an Automotive Apprenticeship with a local company, working on cars, trucks and buses.

Like most young guys at the time, Doug left Kaitaia and moved to Australia with his girlfriend (Pam) to experience the big OE. After travelling and living in several cities, Doug settled in Adelaide to work as a Fleet Maintenance mechanic, servicing Kenworth, MAN and Atkinson trucks transporting freight from Melbourne – Adelaide – Perth.

After several years, Doug and Pam, travelled to Bougainville Island, Papua New Guinea, where he spent the next 5 years working as a Heavy Equipment Fitter for Bougainville Copper Limited. Here he worked on Euclid R170 dump trucks, gaining experience repairing, servicing and rebuilding these enormous vehicles, to become Leading Hand in the Field Service Department.

Having now a family of 2 children, (Hailey and Tane) Doug and his family returned to Kaitaia where they settled for the next 10 years continuing in the motor industry.

At 40, Doug decided on a completely new career path and moved to Whangarei to begin Teacher Training at the Auckland University Campus where he graduated and began his teaching at Whangarei Intermediate School. Over the next 10 years Doug transitioned from Whangarei Intermediate (Scale A Teacher), to Ngunguru School (Associate Principal), to Ahipara School (Deputy Principal), to Matihetihe School – Mitimiti (Principal). Unfortunately, Doug and Pam lost their daughter to cancer in 2010 where he made the decision to step away from school management and return to the classroom.

During the return to the” chalk face”, Doug was approached and took up the position as Automotive Tutor for Northtec - TePukenga, where he spent the next 12 years working with students preparing them for the Motor industry leaving in March 2023. Doug is now working with the team at Smart Trade Solutions Ltd.

NELSON BLOCK COURSES

Last weekend our tutors were on the road to Nelson, a first for this year. A big thanks to Mike for running our weekend courses. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, we hope you enjoyed them and gained some more credits. Finally, a huge thank you to Guthrie's Collision Repair Specialists, Nelson for hosting our event. Ka Nui te mihi!

CHRISTCHURCH BLOCK COURSES

Back to Christchurch last weekend for the latest Block Courses. A big thanks to those apprentices that attended. We know that it is worth your while attending, to achieve credits that you would not otherwise be able to gain at work. It was great talking to you on the day, and a big congratulations to those who completed their apprenticeship training this weekend.

To Mike and Marsh- “cheers” for running the courses. Finally, a huge thank you to Tandem Smash Repairs, Christchurch, for hosting our event. Ka Nui te mihi!

NEW PLYMOUTH BLOCK COURSES

Down to New Plymouth, for the first time this past weekend, for the latest Block Courses. A big thanks to those apprentices that attended. We hope you enjoyed your time with us, and the credits earned, are making you ever closer to completing your apprenticeship.

To Marsh, thanks once again for running the courses. Last, but by no means least, our appreciation to Ben Thomas Panel Beating, 55 Union Street, Hāwera, for hosting our event. Ka Nui te mihi!

This weekend our tutors were kept busy down in West Auckland running the PA2 and PA8 & PA13 Block Courses. A big thanks, to Marsh for running them. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, we hope you enjoyed them as much as we love running them. Finally, a huge thank you to Brent, at A1 Autofinish, for the use of the workshop. Ka Nui te mihi!

R Tucker Thompson “Next Steps” Voyage

Thank you so much to the R Tucker Thompson Team, for inviting Smart Trade Solutions Ltd on your Next Steps voyage. We enjoyed connecting with your Rangatahi, whanau, and wider network of providers and support personnel - https://tucker.co.nz

We hope you like the photos; the weather and company were perfect.

Onboard with us were QRC- Paihia, Northtec, Defence Careers, and Project Island Song.

WARKWORTH BLOCK COURSES

This weekend we were back in Auckland, Warkworth, running another 2 Block Courses. Thanks to those apprentices that attended, gaining additional credits towards completing your apprenticeships. To Scott, kia ora e hoa for running them. Finally, to Shannon at Calibre Collision, Warkworth, we would like to thank you for your support and use of your premises. Ka Nui te mihi!

NEW PLYMOUTH Block Courses

This weekend we were down in New Plymouth, (battling the rain!) running another 2 Block Courses. Thanks to those apprentices that attended, especially those who travelled so far. To Marsh, cheers boys for running them. Last, but by no means least, a huge “thank you” to Ben Thomas Panel Beating, Hawera, for hosting these events. 

We are thrilled to share the great results from our 2-year Collision Repair Initiative for Northland. Watch this space for some more upcoming exciting news...

Rotorua and Papakura

This weekend our tutors were kept busy with two locations for our block courses- Rotorua and Papakura. These were the last of our Block Courses for 2022. A big thanks to Marsh and Rick for running the Rotorua courses and Scott for the Papakura course. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, we hope you enjoyed it as much as we love running them. Finally, a huge thank you to PSY Collisions, Rotorua, and Hugh Munro Panelbeaters, Papakura, for hosting them. Ka Nui te mihi!

We love receiving messages and feedback from clients. Yesterday, Marsh our coordinator for our Skills for Industry programme-Northland, shared Amokura’s, who is working at Granite Heaven in Kerikeri. Awesome work, both of you! We are so lucky to have such a great cohort of clients, employees and employers working along side us. Nga Mihi.

It always makes our day when people we work with and support in their journey share their accomplishments.

This is what we love about our job, seeing you succeed in your pathway through life.

Smart Trade Solutions- Collision Repair Motor Trades Programme

We would like to give a huge shout-out to Jodie Fox. Jodie has just signed into her apprenticeship with Golden Gun Panelbeaters, Auckland, after enrolling/completing our Nationwide Collision Repair Course. Ka Nui te mihi!

Smart Trade Solutions Ltd is thrilled to announce a new team member- Tane Clarke.

Tane is the Lead Coordinator for our HPR Programme and is looking forward to working alongside our rangatahi, supporting them in their journey to a career pathway. Nga mihi!

We love sharing the success stories of our amazing apprentices. Here's our very own Skye, featured on the MITO website. For the full story, check out the link attached.

MITO Te Pūkenga 

 · 

“My dad used to work at the collision repair shop I am in now."

Skye's dad and grandad worked as panel beaters, and with her passion for art, it seemed only natural to get a job at Shield Bros Panel and Paint Limited in Whangarei and complete MITO’s New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Refinishing (Level 4).

Read Skye's story here: https://www.mito.org.nz/.../hobbies-carving-career-paths/

#apprenticeship #refinishing #automotive #spraypainting

2023 AUCKLAND Day Release Courses

This weekend we were back at Shields Bros Albany commencing our 2023 Day Release Courses. Thanks to those apprentices that attended, especially when faced with such extreme weather events! To Scott, ka pai for running them, and driving to and from Auckland in such bad road conditions. Also, once again to Shields Bros for your constant support and use of your premises. We hope that you all have made a great start to your apprenticeship this year, and in gaining credits towards becoming fully qualified. Nga Mihi!

Marsh Williams

Hi, my name is Marsh Williams. I have been married for 34 years to my wife Lesley and we have 2 adult sons.

I grew up in a small town called TePuke, in the Bay of Plenty. I couldn’t wait to leave and signed up for a scheme by Maori Affairs called Maori Affairs Trade Training. The first year was based in Auckland at Manukau Tech training as a Coach Builder. I was lucky to secure an apprenticeship with Burt Rowsell Panelbeaters in Whangarei and qualified as a Panelbeater in 1982. After many years as an employee and as an owner of my own Panelbeating shop I was ready for a new challenge. This was in the engineering field which included Fabrication, Welding, and Pipework. This led me to work in many varied roles in the mining sector in Australia and in more recent years the Offshore Oil and Gas industry in the North Sea and Asia.

Early in my working life, I had mentors that surrounded me to push me in the right direction and give me sound advice. My experience has shown me that positive role models and mentors are an essential part of any training or work environment, this is an area I am very passionate about. This has led me to my current role as a Training Manager with Smart Trades Solutions.

Tane Clarke

HPR, Smart Trade Solutions

Kia Ora

My name is Tane Clarke. My wife and I, along with our three kids, are proud to call Te Tai Tokerau home.

After leaving school I went straight into the world of being a chef. Which, I really enjoyed. I relished the chance to be creative in a busy and vibrant industry.

A Whangarei butcher shop (Omak Meats), whom I dealt with as a supplier, asked if I wanted to join them, which I did. I completed my apprenticeship and found my best fit in the business was the front counter. Making delicious ready-to-go items. My experience as a chef paired perfectly with Omak Meats, and modern butchery. I stayed for 15 years as the business morphed and grew.

This year I joined the Smart Trade Solutions Ltd team as the lead coordinator for the HPR Programme. I love to see young people discover their potential, and find their own pathway to success in an industry they are truly passionate about.

Tracey Lunn

Kia Ora. Originally, from England, I settled in New Zealand in 1996, with my husband Rick Lunn. We have two adult “kiwi” children whom we are very proud of. We are both directors of Smart Trade Solutions Ltd (STS), which we established in 2019. In 2022, I also became the administrator of the company, due to the growth of the programmes we deliver.

Before the kiwis were born, I was a Dental Assistant with one of the established clinics in Whangārei. I studied for my Certificate in Dental Assisting - New Zealand Dental Association by correspondence. I have always enjoyed working with the public and was a manager in the retail sector prior to my arrival here.

After the kiwis were established in full-time education, I returned to work. Firstly, with New Zealand's School Dental Service. Here, I discovered a passion for working with our rangatahi. After which I became a teacher aide, at Kamo Primary School. Five years later I enrolled with The University of Auckland, Faculty of Education, Tai Tokerau Campus. Here I studied for my Bachelor of Education (Teaching). Going on to become a teacher at Matarau School, Whangārei, until becoming STS’s administrator in 2022.

Outside of work I enjoy being with family. Hanging out at the beach, and gym. As well as being a cat lover. Nga Mihi!

Scott Higgins

My name is Scott, and I have been working with Smart Trade Solutions Ltd (STS) since 2020. In my role as a Training Manager, I work with both apprentices and employers, ensuring a continuous pathway for completing a successful apprenticeship. I have extensive knowledge of the Motor Trade Industries and assist in numerous activities with the Northland Collision Repair Industry (CRI-Northland).

My background in the Motor Trade Industries started with Cotterill & Ross Car Painters, Whangarei, as an apprentice Spray Painter. From here I went on to become a vehicle salesman with Pacific Ford. From here I became the Owner/Manager Spectrum Finishes. I moved back to the paint shop as a manager for Tony Gordon Panelbeaters. Finally, moving to Burt Rowsell Panelbeaters, where I was the paint shop manager, before my present role with STS.

During my time in the trades, I have trained many apprentices over the years; some of whom are now business owners in Northland. In addition, I have a real passion for training and passing on knowledge, as it is very rewarding to teach others. Being particularly proud of training three of New Zealand’s top apprentices, two of which went on to represent New Zealand at the Worldskills International finals.

Outside of work I enjoy Crossfit, the occasional run, and walks with my wife and dogs.

This weekend our tutors were busy in Wellington for our Mito day release courses. A big thanks to Mike and Todd for running them. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, we hope you enjoyed it as much as we love running them. Finally, a huge thank you to R S Lane Panel and Paint, for hosting them. Ka Nui te mihi!

Over the last three Tuesdays, Smart Trade Solutions Ltd has been working with rangatahi from Springbank School, Kerikeri. Running a Basic Car Maintenance Course, the rangatahi learned skills such as changing a wheel, checking tyre pressures, and checking a vehicle's oil/water. A huge rima teitei to those who attended.

We would like to thank Stephen Hartland and Clint McLennan for running the course. Ian Sizer for coordinating the event, and Repco Kerikeri, for kindly donating three socket sets as prizes. Ka nui te mihi!

Rick Lunn-

I am the Director of Smart Trade Solutions Ltd, and I have worked in vocational education & training for over 25 years now. During this time, I have operated across many industries and worked with an extensive network of employers. With my original trade background in Collision Repair, I have worked across the various automotive sectors around Northland, and Auckland, for many years in managing a team of Coordinators in the Modern Apprenticeship programme, specialising in the automotive, building, construction, and joinery industries. Over the years I have mentored & supported hundreds of apprentices all around Northland and Auckland. Usually, I am the first port of call for advice and support within the Automotive Industries in Whangarei and across Tai Tokerau, and I am seen as a Subject Matter Expert for Collision Repair in NZ.

In my leisure time, I enjoy keeping fit and healthy. My main interests are Karate, running, and working out at the gym.

My passion for the Trades Industry and its future pathways is paramount. What drives Smart Trade Solutions Ltd is to provide consistent best practices for our rangatahi, clients, employers, and employees.

Last week we were delighted to be part of another school event at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Kaikohe. Our experienced team were able to showcase the Trades Industry to the local rangatahi. We had a fantastic day and would like to thank the Kura, rangatahi, and the EEB team at Tai Tokerau Trades Training, for the invitation. Nga Mihi!

CHRISTCHURCH DAY RELEASE COURSES

Last weekend our tutors were on the road to Christchurch. A big thanks to Marsh for running our weekend courses, and staying an extra night. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, thank you for giving your time. Finally, a huge thank you to Warren at Tandem Smash Repairs, Christchurch for hosting our event. Ka Nui te mihi!

Smart Trade Solutions were delighted to host the latest I-CAR course, at their, business premises- 66 Bank Street, Whangarei in the Hono office. Our company director-Rick Lunn was the facilitator/tutor and wishes to thank all those who attended.

If you are interested in hosting a small group event in one of our office spaces, please head to our website: https://www.smarttrades.co.nz/ or Facebook messenger- Smart Trade Solutions Ltd, with your enquiry. Nga Mihi.

AUCKLAND SOUTH BLOCK COURSES

Last weekend our tutors were teaching in Auckland South. A first for hosting at the I-CAR Training Centre, Māngere. A big thanks to Scott and Marsh for running our weekend courses. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, congratulations on accomplishing more credits towards the completion of your apprenticeship. Finally, a huge thank you to the I-CAR Training Centre, Māngere, Auckland, for hosting our event. Ka Nui te mihi!

This weekend we were back in Hamilton, running another 2 Day Release Courses. Thanks to those apprentices that attended, gaining additional credits towards completing your apprenticeships. To Scott , Kia ora e hoa for running them. Finally, to Mills Collision Repair Centre, Frankton, we would like to thank you for your support and use of your premises. Ka Nui te mihi!

Dunedin Day Release Courses

This weekend we were also in Dunedin running day release courses. Thanks to those apprentices that attended, we hope you enjoyed your time. To Mike and Todd, ka pai for running them. Also, a big shout out to Harrows Motor Body Works, Dunedin. We greatly appreciate the support of local businesses in hosting the days. Nga Mihi!

Kia Ora. Tuesday 28th March, Scott from Smart Trade Solutions Ltd was in Auckland, assisting with the Automotive Waterborne Refinishing Day Release Course.  A big “Thank you” to the following- Firstly, to Resene Automotive & Light Industrial, for the use of their Auckland Training Centre. To Josh Fistonich, for the training in prep, application, and blending techniques. Scott for assisting in the processes. Finally, to those who attended, congratulations on attaining credits, and making it such an enjoyable day. Nga Mihi.

AUCKLAND WEST

Back to A1 Autofinish in New Lynn, Auckland, again this last weekend. Another 2 great Day Release Training days for apprentices. Thank you to those who attended. We love the feedback you give us; it makes us feel very humble. Below are a few of the comments from this weekend…

“Great help, very knowledgeable,” Alex.

“Fantastic support, very helpful. Well organised and super friendly, Nga mihi Smart Trade Solutions!!” Eli.

“Incredible human, kind, inspire me to keep up with the good work,” Dhiresh.

“A++ staff,” Jordan.

Thanks to Scott and Marsh for running the courses, and a huge shout out to Alan and Sharron Martin, for hosting us. Nga Mihi.

Last weekend our tutors were on the road to Nelson, a first for this year. A big thanks to Mike and Bruce for running our weekend courses. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, we hope you enjoyed them and gained some more credits. Finally, a huge thank you to Ricki and Shelly of Guthrie's Collision Repair Specialists Nelson, for hosting our event. Ka Nui te mihi!

A first for our tutors last weekend as they were down in Timaru. A big thanks to Marsh for running our weekend courses. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, we hope you gained some more credits towards the completion of your apprenticeship. It was awesome to see so many wahine there. Finally, a huge thank you to –Total Automotive, Timaru, for hosting our event, and making our team feel welcome. Ka Nui te mihi!

A trip for our tutors last weekend to the bottom of the South Island- Invercargill. A big thanks to Mike and Todd for running our weekend courses. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, we hope enjoyed the two days, and gained more credits. Finally, a huge thank you to – Road Runner Panel & Paint, Invercargill for hosting our event, and making our team feel welcome. Ka Nui te mihi!

Skye’s passion for art was a large factor in wanting to get into automotive refinishing. Skye was awarded a scholarship from us, Smart Trade Solutions Ltd (STS), early in 2022, which paid for her airbrushing course. She attended the course once a week in a local painting shop. Recently, STS commissioned her to airbrush a car bonnet for their office on Bank Street, in Whangarei. To say we are stoked with the result is an understatement! Skye, you have a very bright future ahead of you, and we are honoured to both sponsor you and support you in your apprenticeship journey. Nga Mihi!

Lily is one of our recent enrolments to our programme. She is currently on a 4-week work-experience placement in Auckland, where she’s absolutely smashing it! Fingers crossed that this leads to a job offer and indeed an apprenticeship. You will be an asset to whoever employs you!

Last weekend Queenstown put on beautiful, but cold days for our tutors. A big thanks to Mike and Marsh for braving the cold (both North Islanders) and running our weekend courses. Also, to all those apprentices that attended, we hope you enjoyed it as much as we love running them. Finally, a huge thank you to Accidento Repairs Queenstown. Ka Nui te mihi!

The weekend of the 27th & 28th of May, we were in our hometown of Whangarei. Thank you to those apprentices that attended. We know some of you are just a step away from completing all your units. To Scott, kia ora, for using your weekend to run them. Last but by no means least, cheers to Shields Bros Whangarei, for hosting the event once more. Ka Nui te mihi!

Last weekend Mike and Todd were also running courses in Christchurch, cheers guys. A big thanks to all those apprentices that attended, we hope you enjoyed it as much as we love running them. Finally, a massive whakamihi to Rosiez Collision Repairs – Sydenham, Christchurch for hosting our event. Ka Nui te mihi!