Apprentices across the country are set to test themselves from Saturday 8 June as the regional practicals for this year's Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year competition begin.
Winner of the coveted CARTERS-sponsored title in 2023 Jack Nevines knows what it takes to nail it, literally and metaphorically. What did it mean to the Auckland-based builder to be crowned New Zealand's top apprentice? "It meant heaps," says Jack. "It showed the support and encouragement that the team had put in behind me. Yes, it was a personal win, but it was also a win for the team."
The team he refers to is Faulkner Construction. He has continued being employed by the company after completing his apprenticeship in September. "I'm keen to stick around in the company, for sure. They've given me so much in terms of training and support throughout my apprenticeship, I definitely want to give back to the business.
"Winning the Apprentice of the Year, after I'd finished my apprenticeship in September, was really the icing on the cake.
"We're working on a massive residential site out at Maraetai at the moment, so that's keeping us busy right now! I haven't looked too far into the future yet."
Building isn't in his family but is something Jack was drawn to on leaving school.
The former Pakuranga College student has enjoyed getting around in the CARTERS ute and has received a fair bit of attention on his travels, he says. "It's been fantastic! When you're driving around in the ute with the signage on the side, you do get a lot of people coming up to you and saying well done."
What is his advice to apprentices picking up the tools for the regional practicals as the 2024 competition get underway from June 8th? "Get stuck into it! I'd say, for the practical stage, take your time. It's always better to make sure you read the plans properly from the word go – you don't get a second chance! So, take all the instructions in before you start.
"I spent a lot of time on my submission for the judges, so I just hoped it was pretty good. Thankfully, the effort I'd put in paid off!
"Most importantly, give it your best crack and just have fun!"
And with judges’ comments on his submission in last year's final including the word 'perfect', it's clear Jack's given it a decent crack indeed.
For more information or to follow the progress in this year's competition follow us on socials and visit our website
Facebook: @cartersnz @registeredmasterbuilders
Instagram: @cartersbuildingsupplies @masterbuildernz
