The hard work, commitment and ultimate success of 72 graduates is being celebrated at the annual TradeQual recognition dinner on Friday 10th November at Ascot Park Hotel.
This event recognises the achievements of apprentices in a variety of industries including
automotive electrical & mechanical engineering, boat building and aluminium joinery who have completed their respective apprenticeships and trade qualifications between 1
September 2016 and 31 August this year.
Southland Chamber of Commerce CEO Sheree Carey said “the event was designed to reward the efforts of trade training graduates from across Southland and acknowledge the effort of their employers and industry training organisations (ITO) in helping the apprentices complete their training.
The evening promotes the trades sector as a valued career pathway for Southlanders and
signals the contribution the sector makes to our region’s economy.
This is an important annual event in the Chamber calendar as it celebrates those who have
graduated and importantly – decided to stay in the South to work. Skilled trades people are
crucial to the future growth of our region and we’re proud to be part of it”
The Southland Chamber of Commerce event is sold out with over 300 people attending,
including the apprentices’ family & friends, employers and representatives from ITOs and tertiary institutions.
The MC for the evening is John Prendergast and the guest speaker is Riverton local Rodney Lonneker of Pankhurst Sawmilling.
Graduates will receive their certificates from the three Southland Mayors.