Next Step Magazine - Issue 6

NZ’S #1 CAREERS MAGAZINE FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS read t s u m A ents, d u t S r fo and s t n e r a P rs!

Teache

Proudly partnering with www.schoolconnect.co.nz

ISSUE 6

WHY LIMIT YOUR CAREER CHOICE?

Business Advisor

Risk Analyst

Chief Executive Officer

Board Member

Forensic Accountant

Entrepreneur Business Analyst

Auditor

Stockbroker Sustainability Accountant Financial Planner Chief Financial Officer

Strategist

Tax Specialist

By becoming a CA, you can live life your way.

From re-shaping the fortunes of a failing company or changing the world in your own social enterprise.

The choice is yours.

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youunlimitedanz.com charteredaccountantsanz.com/students/pathways

From the Next Step Team

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Welcome to the sixth edition of Next Step magazine, we’re really proud of this one!

With insight into careers in manufacturing, automotive and music to careers in corporate services, this issue of Next Step has it all. Delve inside the pages and kick start that ‘where to next’ conversation.

We have managed to pack as much relevant information for both students and key influencers among these pages, ensuring we provide an accurate holistic view of the current state of the opportunities available within the youth employment market. We get significant joy from helping open both student and parents eyes to the wealth of opportunities available to them with our end goal being to reducing youth unemployment across the country.

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Contents Shooting for the Top

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What is SchoolConnect

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Compose your Future - Southern Institute of Technology

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Engineering Innovation within New Zealand - Fisher & Paykel Healthcare

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Try Before You Buy - Your Future Survival Guide - Careers New Zealand

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Higher Level Education - Mainz

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How to use SchoolConnect

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Employment Experts for Tertiary Students - SJS

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Is your Job Hunt Driving you Crazy? Consider Toyota - Toyota

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The Digital Age

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Transport your Dreams Around the Globe with Mainfreight - Mainfreight

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Cutting Edge Careers & Training - CHH Woodproducts New Zealand

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Next Step© 2016. Published by Green Door Design Limited.

Don’t put a Limit on your Career Options - Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand

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No part of this publication may be replicated, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, internet, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publishers.

Jetting to a Brighter Future - Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand

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Feeding a Passion for Numbers - Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand

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A Week in the Life of Hamish Jolly, CA - Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand

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SchoolConnect Career’s Week

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Is Tomorrow a Mystery? Let us Help you Solve it!

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Finding Inspiration at Home and Around the World - Victoria University of Wellington

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Brothers in Chiropractic - New Zealand College of Chiropractic

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It’s a Plumb Job - Masterlink

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Coasting Through a Career in Resource Management - Careers New Zealand

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The Grass is Always Greener... - Careers New Zealand

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Send your Career into Cyberspace - Deloitte

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Online Tips and Tricks

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To continue more comprehensive searches covering a wider variety of study options, we have once again partnered with digital platform, SchoolConnect. Furthermore, we are proud to be supported by two key players in New Zealand’s youth market; Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and Careers New Zealand.

We are positive you will enjoy the content throughout these pages. Should you have any comments or queries, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

THE NEXT STEP TEAM PUBLISHER: Green Door Design EDITOR: Maddy Gwynne GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Magdalena Stanuch SCHOOLCONNECT CONTRIBUTORS: Tim Watts and Robert Milne COPYWRITERS: Miah Dixon, Nicola Gorst and Rhianna Lennox

Green Door Design Limited has put measures in place to ensure the exactness of the information in this publication; however, they accept no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or subsequent consequences. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily endorsed by the editor, publisher, Green Door Design Limited and its related parties.

Interested in being in the next issue of this magazine ? Contact us!

For any editorial, advertising or general queries you may have regarding Next Step Magazine please get in touch.

Maddy Gwynne 09 307 7858 maddyg@greendoordesign.co.nz www.greendoordesign.co.nz

Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

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Shooting for the Top Being a professional sportsman isn’t Simon Childs only achievement, he managed to study and complete a Bachelor of Business while representing New Zealand at an Olympic level and tells us why education was so important to him and goes hand in hand with a successful sporting career.

Having been selected to play for the New Zealand Men’s Black Stick side at just 16 years of age, it may have been an easy decision to put my education to one side in favour of pursuing my sporting dream particularly when this meant I was given permission to tour the world instead of attending classes at school.

I recognised that my hockey commitments may take priority at times and I wouldn’t have a ‘normal’ student experience in my final year at school therefore I sought advice regarding my options from my parents, career advisors, and my coach.

The feedback and advice I received was invaluable – not only was it emphasised that hockey was an amateur sport in New Zealand, meaning it could prove difficult to support ambitious personal endeavours in the future, it was also then that I understood hockey was only a small part of my life and I needed to consider life after sport.

A huge variety of education providers make learning incredibly accessible with a number of options available to suit people, places and priorities. I decided the best option for me was Massey University’s Bachelor of Business Studies. While still playing hockey abroad, I was able to make full use of Massey’s extramural program and graduated with a double major BBS in 2013.

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NextStep//ISSUE 6

Meet Simo n Child, C aptain, New Zeala nd Men’s B lack Stick

Employers appreciate many attributes that develop during an athletes career – teamwork, dedication, perseverance, but being able to show the foresight to pursue study as well as balance other commitments, will nearly always give you an upper hand.

I’m now 28 years old and have represented my country at three Olympic Games spanning 11 years. During that time I also played professionally in the Netherlands for Hockey Club Rotterdam from 2008 - 2013 and for the Delhi Waveriders in the Hockey India League from 2013-present. Recently I started work at Colliers International, New Zealand’s largest commercial real estate firm.

Looking back, I am able to recognise the importance of seeking advice to find a suitable career path – regardless of how many attempts or how long it takes, any and all study pursued ensures a solid foundation from which to build a successful career. Set yourself goals, prioritise and be flexible – don’t be afraid to change course and try something new.

Simon Child

CAPTAIN OF NEW ZEALAND MEN’S BLACK STICKS

Follow SchoolConnect on

What is ? t c e n n o C l Schoo Not sure where (and if) to study? Considering going straight from school into the workplace? If you’re after up-to-date information about further study options, career entry pathways and employment opportunities, then SchoolConnect.co.nz is the website for you!

SchoolConnect caters to students, parents and careers counsellors. It’s not the new Wikipedia – it’s more than just a website with a bunch of information. With a range of resources including discussion forums, testimonials and quizzes, there is something for everyone.

Check out SchoolConnect.co.nz today – make the best choices for your future.

Jobs

Careers Even if you think you know exactly what you need to do to build your career, sometimes you just miss something.

The Careers section of SchoolConnect prepares you for this.

It provides valuable information about hundreds of different roles and the qualifications and experience needed to get them.

This section also contains testimonials from young individuals who are currently working in their chosen fields.

Working doesn’t have to stay part-time when you finish school.

Tertiary study isn’t for everyone and SchoolConnect understands this.

Visit the Jobs section – a job board, with vacancies specifically for young people. This ensures that you are aware of employment opportunities that exist for school-leavers.

Study Head over to the Study section of SchoolConnect to discover how to start your journey to your dream job. Find out what (or if!) you need to continue studying, so you can study your preferred subjects after high school.

Scope out different tertiary institutes and see which programme will be most suited to your future. You can choose an institute by type, location, and course offerings.

Explore scholarship opportunities as well – there are hundreds of different types to choose from!

Flip through NextStep and see what grabs your .co.nz attention or take our Careers Quiz on

schoolconnect

www.schoolconnect.co.nz take the next step

.co.nz

schoolconnect take the next step Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

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START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY With SIT and the Zero Fees Scheme Animation Architectural Technology Art Audio Production Automotive Engineering Beauty Therapy Business Business Administration Carpentry Civil Engineering Collision Repair Computing Cookery Electrical Engineering Environmental Management Veterinary Nursing Fashion Floristry Graphic Design Hairdressing

Hospitality Hotel Management Information Technology Joinery Massage Therapy Management Mechanical Engineering Mental Health Support Work Music Nanny Education Nursing Photography Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Quantity Surveying Screen Arts Social Services Sport and Exercise Travel

*Direct material costs apply

Call today or email info@sit.ac.nz

0800 4 0 FEES www.sit.ac.nz

#NZcareersatsea Imagine yourself cooking on a ferry, catching big snapper as a trawler deckhand, crewing in the Bahamas on a super yacht or being the Captain on the bridge of a 1000 tonne oil tanker. There’s also careers onshore – Maritime officers focus on safety, naval architects design big ships and small, there’s logistics, support and stevedoring.

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NextStep//ISSUE 6

Whatever you choose, you won’t be bored. Find out what subjects you will need to train for your exciting career at sea.

Discover a career at sea… maritimenz.govt.nz/wmd careers.govt.nz

Follow SchoolConnect on

MUSIC

Compose your

Future Tomorrow People

Are you an aspiring musician? You may want to compose your future with the Southern Institute of Technology.

SIT graduates Hamo Dell and Daniel Sugrue applaud the tertiary institution’s emphasis on the performance aspect of music; while appreciating the theoretical training they were also provided. For these graduates, SIT hit all the right notes.

perform with people who have experience in the music industry and I loved being able to learn from that.

Two Southern Institute of Technology graduates are making a name for themselves in the New Zealand music industry, alongside one of the country’s number one bands.

“Every experience is new and exciting, and I’m often ticking things off my goal list,” Daniel said.

Bachelor of Contemporary Music graduates Hamo Dell and Daniel Sugrue are the newest members of the award-winning 7-piece reggae band Tomorrow People and say they wouldn’t be there without the help of SIT. “Sometimes it’s who you know, not what you know,” Daniel said.

“I would never have made the connections I did if it weren’t for the people I met during my study.”

Daniel, who studied music in his final few years of high school before taking on the Bachelor of Contemporary Music, is now the band’s drummer. He said he was initially drawn to the course due to SIT’s Zero Fees scheme, but it was ultimately the credibility of the tutors that sealed the deal.

“Learning an instrument is one thing, but learning to play it musically with other people is a whole different thing and I liked how the course allowed us to do that.”

Since graduating and being recruited into the band, the pair have been presented with bright futures and exciting possibilities.

“A notable experience was recording an album with other talented and well-known musicians, and hearing it play on the radio – that’s always something special.”

Hamo said her ultimate goal was to perform around the world and to make a living from creating original music.

Southern Institute of Technology is a fast growing tertiary education provider with a strong reputation, and strong links to employers and industry leaders.

It’s Zero Fees Scheme means more students are able to afford education and graduate stress-free.

“There was a strong focus on learning to read and understand the theoretical side of music, which was one of the main things I wanted to learn; but the most enjoyable thing for me was the amount of time we got to spend performing live and playing with other people.”

The band’s newest vocalist, Hamo, said studying at SIT gave her a better understanding of the music industry in general; as well as of more specific things, like how to perform. “[The course] teaches the fundamentals of music and the industry, and then it’s up to the student to expand on those teachings,” she said.

“My favourite part of the course would definitely be the performing.

Throughout the course, you’re given the chance to watch, or to

Contact SIT today on information@sit.ac.nz, 0800 40 3337 or visit our website www.sit.ac.nz Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

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Kate Bartley started at Fisher & Paykel Healthcare as a summer intern, and has now moved in permanently as a graduate. She shares with us some of the things she loves about being a part of the FPH team.

NAME

Kate Bartley

ORGANISATION YOU WORK FOR ROLE Product

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare

Development Engineer

TERTIARY EDUCATION University DEGREE BA

Economics & European Studies BE (Hons) Mechanical Engineering

Social life at FPH

What I do As a Product Development Engineer, every day is different, I could spend one day at my computer working on documentation and analysing data. The next day I could be busy testing in a lab, talking to nurses in the hospital, out in production building product for clinical trials, or in the model shop whipping up a new prototype.

My skills When I look back on the work report I produced after my first summer, I can see how far I’ve come.

Not just an improvement in my technical skills, but also in my interpersonal skills. My time management skills have improved and I am proud of the quality of the work that I produce.

Everyone always raves about how the people make the company and even after people leave the company, they still keep in touch. Last year I even went sailing around Greece with two engineers from my team that I had become friends with as a student.

“

In addition to the large variety of work and the great people, an awesome thing about working here is you are constantly learning and developing a range of skills.

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FPH prides itself on having a great work-life balance, and there are always a lot of social activities on offer. The FPH social club hosts a number of activities a year such as bowling, pub quizzes, and sports tournaments. There is a ball put on every year and informal team building activities within your product team, so your calendar can always be full of work events if you wish!

This is the place to work if you value a work-life balance, did you choose to apply? making a difference Why Having studied such a broad range of subjects at in your daily work and university, I knew I wanted to work in a place that having access to some allowed me to constantly learn and challenge I also liked the idea of working for a big of the best resources myself. company that is innovative, succeeding in its field in New Zealand - both and making a difference. As a student I was able to the facilities available get a taste for what working here full time would be like and this definitely cemented my decision to and the people”

What do you like about working at FPH?

Check out

Other things I’ve been involved in...

I’ve been lucky enough to start at what I think is the perfect time in my team, seeing the release of a new product throughout New Zealand and Australia. Joining at this time means that I have been able to go and see the products that I helped develop as a student being used by patients in the hospital.

of Auckland

This variety was a big part of what sold me on returning to work at FPH as a graduate, after my two summers as an intern. The people here are some of the most interesting and talented people you will meet and are always willing to take time to help out and guide you in the right direction.

FPH also encourages employees to take advantage of the workshop facilities, both for work and home projects. The laser cutter is especially awesome for making personalised gifts for friends and family, whether it is personalised photo frames or jewellery. Our unique location next to a lake with big open areas means in summer we can get outside and stretch our legs on lunch breaks. Occasionally we’ll even break out a game of volleyball or frisbee.

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ENGINEERING

Engineering Innovation within New Zealand

return as a graduate.

It is awesome having worked as a student and coming into a graduate role, as you are often placed in the same team you have worked with in the past. You already know how the company works, which means that you can focus immediately on your new role and taking on greater responsibility.

www.fphcareers.com

NextStep//ISSUE 6

Follow SchoolConnect on

Try Before You Buy - Your Future Survival Guide Peter Tahere from Careers New Zealand discusses career choices and post-school options available to secondary school students.

It’s never too early to start thinking about career choices Meet Peter Tahere from Careers New Zealand

When is the best time to begin thinking about career choices?

The earlier, the better. In an ideal world, secondary school students would start thinking about their futures in Year 9, if not sooner! I’ve been having career-focused conversations with my daughter since she was in Year 7: as soon as she was at an age when she could understand what we were talking about. When she was that age, she wanted to be a flight attendant or a nurse, romanticising what that kind of work might be like; but over the years she’s matured and become more realistic about what would suit her. I’m glad I gave her this early head start!

What’s the best way to explore the various post-school options that are available?

High schools have some really good programmes, such as: • The Gateway programme • The STAR programme (Secondary Tertiary Alignment Resource) • Trade and service academies • Work Choice days • Job-shadowing days

Check out schoolconnect.co.nz

In my opinion, the Gateway programme in particular is brilliant – schools now have wait lists to get into the programme. Gateway is about having real-world experiences that are relevant to schoolbased learning. When you’re having an experience that is real for you, you’re more likely to be engaged and gaining a good insight into that work setting, as well as gaining unit standard credits for NCEA. Finally, the programme also helps with self-management – a key competency that schools are trying to instil in students.

I’d also suggest gaining some work experience – see if you can tap into networks you already have through your family, friends, and teachers. Showing initiative and making connections proves that you have a good attitude.

Another available resource is our website. Checking out our online database is always a good place to start, especially for students who might not have an established (relevant) social network. Talking to careers advisers can also be helpful – we have an 0800 number (0800 222 733) for a careers advice line. A good move would be to combine the advice received from your networks, with current and accurate information like the material available on our site.

It’s important to understand yourself – what are you interested in, or what could you be interested in? This is called the SODA (Self awareness, Opportunity awareness, Deciding – making informed decisions; and Action) model. Once you’ve pinpointed your area/s of interest, you can identify a relevant industry, and what you could potentially do within that industry.

Is it important to consider a work-life balance when evaluating career choices?

It always pays to have balance in your life, but what that looks like will vary from one person to the next. Some people are blessed: their passion is their profession; but others separate the two. For example, one could work in an office to earn an income, but go hunting and fishing as an unpaid hobby. It’s really important to understand what your personal passions are, in order to achieve a stable work-life balance.

Does volunteering help with making career choices?

It might not lead directly to an end result, but a lot of positives can come from volunteering. Today it’s common to have employers requiring some kind of prior experience. Volunteering in an organisation that’s relevant to your chosen field of interest is also an opportunity to decide if that industry is really right for you – it’s a ‘try before you buy’ scenario. Additionally, it shows that you’re willing to contribute and/or give back to your community. Volunteering is also great because it allows you to demonstrate that you have a positive attitude and a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone – it’s something that you can put on your CV, and hopefully you can get a reference as well. Finally, volunteering lets you further build your networks and relationships.

Go to careers.govt.nz or call us on 0800 222 733 for more great advice Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz Follow SchoolConnect on

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Land your dream job in music or business with relevant, industry-focused degrees through Tai Poutini Polytechnic (TPP).

These programmes offer benefits for students, who are set up to succeed in their chosen industry, as well as helping to boost the research and academic focus of the Polytechnic and support the national economy by turning out work-ready graduates.

TPP offers degree-level study that sets you up for success in the music and business industries, with study options through MAINZ and at campuses around the country. Recent graduates are excited about the career opportunities ahead.

MAINZ General Manager Christine Fenton says the degree programmes are successful because of their relevance to the music industry.

Bachelor of Musical Arts graduate Cassandra Notton says the decision to take her study to a higher level was an easy one to make.

“I always wanted to get my degree and to be able to do that in music is a fantastic opportunity. I feel really lucky that I have been able to study something I love.

“The degree really pushes you to think for yourself, be disciplined and manage your studies. Now I’m recording with my band and we’re looking to go on tour; that’s the dream and MAINZ has set me up to achieve it,” she says.

For those who prefer to work behind the scenes, MAINZ also offers a Bachelor of Audio Engineering and Production (available for the first time at the Christchurch campus in 2017) and various Graduate Diplomas. The wider Polytechnic has a Bachelor or Graduate Diploma in Business and Enterprise.

“We’re not just teaching degree students to be critical thinkers, we’re turning out well-rounded graduates who have already been exposed to key industry players and are walking straight into the business.

“The degrees and graduate diplomas bring that next level of professionalism to the study; we’re different at MAINZ because our graduates have all the academic, practical and networking skills they need to step straight into their dream job.”

“

I always wanted to get my degree and to be able to do that in music is a fantastic opportunity. I feel really lucky that I have been able to study something I love.

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MUSIC

Higher Level Education

CASSANDRA NOTTON

HIGHER LEVEL EDUCATION Bachelor of Musical Arts A Bachelor of Audio Engineering and Production Graduate Dip. in Business and Enterprise A Bachelor of Business and Enterprise G

A Faculty of Tai Poutini Polytechnic

A

APPLY NOW FOR 2017 A

= Auckland

C

= Christchurch

G

= Greymouth

0800 TPP INFO | TPP.AC.NZ 10

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H ow to u s e ? t c e n n o C l Schoo Having lived in Whitford all her life, Natalie often spends her school holidays riding horses at the Whitford Pony Club. She also campaigns actively for SAFE and the SPCA. As Year 12 rolls around, Natalie starts thinking about her future, and realises that taking care of animals – and horses in particular – is her passion. She wonders if she could be an equine vet in the future.

Natalie’s mum, Christine, suggests that she looks for some work experience so she can earn money while studying. Natalie goes to see her careers counsellor, who tells her about SchoolConnect.

A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE:

Step 1: Jobs

Step 2: Careers

The pharmacy offers Natalie a position with hours that work around her school schedule. She accepts!

Reading the details, Natalie learns that a vet can care for farm animals, pets, or wild animals – as well as doing clinical work. She then clicks on the “Career Opportunities” tab and learns that if she wanted to take her career in a different direction in the future, she could also become an Animal Physiologist, a Zookeeper, Zoo Manager, or a Taxidermist.

Natalie goes to one of the only online job boards designed for high school students: SchoolConnect’s “Jobs” section.

There, she finds a job at a local pharmacy that she can do parttime while at school and university, and gain relevant work experience in the field of medicine.

After a few months, Natalie decides to think about her next steps to becoming a equine veterinarian. Her school careers adviser takes her to SchoolConnect’s “Careers” page.

Natalie shows her the “Veterinarian” page, in the “careers requiring study” section, under “Agriculture and Animal Care”. This gives Natalie a whole bunch of information about the different types of animal-related care that vets can specialise in, and how to become a vet.

Step 3: Study

Natalie also notices that there’s only one place in New Zealand where she can study the required Bachelor of Veterinary Science, and that in order to get in, she must work hard in her science classes at school. Fortunately, she has always loved science, especially biology.

Check out schoolconnect.co.nz

Christine asks her to click on “Where to Study”, which reveals that Massey University is the only place in NZ offering a course in Veterinary Science. However, it also says that New Zealand’s qualification is well known around the world for being of the highest quality. Natalie also uses SchoolConnect’s discussion forum to ask a few more questions and to be advised by experts of the field.

Natalie saves the SchoolConnect page to her favourites so she can check in with the discussion forum after work.

Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

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When it comes to tertiary study we know that there are many things for you to consider like what to study, and where to enrol.

If you are thinking of enrolling in tertiary study once you finish High School, you may also want to consider whether you will need a job to support yourself.

Here at Student Job Search (SJS) we offer a free service that aims to match students looking for work, with employers looking for talent like you.

What’s special about us is that we advertise thousands of jobs every year, just for tertiary students! We can help you find work all year round and advertise a range of different jobs to suit your study schedule and experience. From one-off jobs to permanent part-time work, there is sure to be something that suits you.

Jazz is just one example of a student that has used our website to apply for a job, and ended up with so much more.

At the beginning of 2015, City Fitness was looking to hire a parttime receptionist. They advertised the job on SJS and within a couple of weeks had hired Jazz. Jazz said: “I was on the SJS website desperately looking for any kind of job as I had just finished studying at a performing arts school but needed to get a normal job pronto”.

Since starting, Jazz has been promoted twice. First to Reception Supervisor, and then by mid last year she said: “I became the youngest Assistant Club Manager among all 22 City Fitness clubs nation wide.” She further explained: “I have had the opportunity to gain experience I never thought possible and have been able to gain amazing qualifications in REPS and Skills Active purely by applying as a receptionist and quickly growing into different roles.”

Jazz contacted us to share her story and said: “I recommend Student Job Search to every single student I know looking for a job and without you guys - I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

If you have enrolled in tertiary study for 2017, you will be able to start using SJS up to 4 months before you start. Applying for jobs on the website is easy and only requires that you register as a student to get started. You can register by going to www.sjs.co.nz.

There are many benefits to having a job while studying. Not only does a job give you extra money, it also allows you to gain skills and experience that will help you now, and after you graduate.

I recommend Student Job Search to every single student I know looking for a job and without you guys - I wouldn’t be where I am today.

JAZZ , ASSISTANT CLUB MANAGER, CITY FITNESS

Want to know more about SJS? Head to our website www.sjs.co.nz or give our friendly team a call on 0800 757 562.

Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

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AUTOMOTIVE

Is your Job Hunt Driving you Crazy? Consider Toyota.

If you’re practical, hard working, and willing to work your way up in a great company, then Toyota might be the workplace for you. We chatted to Workshop Controller Daniel Long, and Apprentice Technician Connor Sutherland, about their journeys with the company.

NAME:

NAME:

Connor Sutherland

Daniel Long

ORGANISATION:

ORGANISATION:

Waikato Toyota

Coast Toyota

ROLE:

ROLE:

Apprentice Technician

Workshop Controller HIGH SCHOOL:

Morrinsville College

Greymouth High School

How have you found your time at Toyota so far?

How have you found your time at Toyota so far?

The main reason I’ve stayed at Toyota for 11 years is because of its culture: we’re like a family here. Also, I love our product – it’s important for me to be able to put my name behind something I really believe in.

It’s been great to be a part of such a friendly culture! Getting to know the other staff members has been awesome, and they always give great service to customers.

At age 19, I started out with Toyota as a groomer. This job was fairly mundane, but my persistence proved that I was determined and reliable. My service manager noticed this and offered me a role as an apprentice technician. Following this, I completed some of Toyota’s company courses and became the head technician.

Why Toyota?

Why Toyota?

I’m all about the product: in my opinion, a Hilux is the best vehicle you can get. Initially, I was just looking for an after-school job, and Toyota seemed like a good place to work. I worked after school for a year before starting my apprenticeship halfway through Year 11. At first, this apprenticeship involved charging the batteries on the yard cars; and eventually I moved into the workshop, once I got the hang of things.

I was job-hunting without any specific company in mind; and Matthew, Toyota’s Service Manager at the time, was the most helpful out of the all the people I spoke to about employment.

What specific skills have you learnt through the Toyota Apprenticeship and about yourself during this time?

What specific skills have you learnt through the Toyota Apprenticeship and about yourself during this time?

I’m seven months of the way through my four-year apprenticeship.

So far I’ve learnt a lot of in-depth information about how different parts of vehicles work. I have had to complete some paperwork, but it’s been very manageable; and I’ve learned so much – not only about how things work, but also about how to better manage my time. The other staff members have been really supportive throughout my apprenticeship – they’re always willing to help and guide me.

As a technician, Toyota pays for me to go on training courses to keep up to date with the latest technology. Now that I’m in a management position, I also get sent on management courses. Becoming a manager has brought out skills in me that I didn’t know I had!

What would your number one tip be for people looking to get into the automotive industry?

Work hard, be on time, and be enthusiastic. It’s good to have a general interest in Toyota’s products, but you don’t need to have a specific skill set right away, as the company provides great training.

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HIGH SCHOOL:

NextStep//ISSUE 6

What’s next? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I’m planning on finishing my apprenticeship with Toyota, and then stick with them and go into modifying 4WDs – either in NZ or in Australia.

My parting advice would be to try and find something that you like doing – look for part-time or after-school work in an area that interests you, and work your way into a full-time position.

Follow SchoolConnect on

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WelTec and Whitireia are strategic partners delivering more choice to students.

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THE DIGITAL AGE If you’re wondering what the best options avalilable to you are following highschool, we have the inside scoop on what these are and why.

Next Step interviewd 52 businesses across New Zealand to find out what subject backgrounds they typically hire from, along with where they struggle to find talent.

Unsurprisingly, given the digital age we live in today, ICT was a common theme across both questions, with employers having high demand for graduates in the ICT space, however simultaneously, struggling to find the quantity of talent in this space. To us this shows a significant need for more students to be considering careers in ICT.

What subjects are employers hiring from?

Unsurprisingly, Business, Engineering and ICT top the list of subject that employers hire young people from. Interestingly, more and more firms who do not operate directly in the ICT or Engineering space are looking for talent in these areas due to the changing digital nature of their business and the way they have been educated to think.

With an increasingly digital centric world and the high long-term demand for educated people from these subject backgrounds, these are great subject choices to be considering for post secondary school study or training.

Which subjects do you struggle to find new hires in?

As indicated by the adjacent graph, there is a large shortage of of skilled ICT workers in comparison to the demand at an entry to graduate level. This further supports the rationale for students to be considering careers in ICT given the positive long term job prosperities.

Engineering and Science are close behind, echoing the fact that workers with knowledge of STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) are still lacking in New Zealand.

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NextStep//ISSUE 6

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Spotlight on the ICT Sector When results from the survey were returned, it was intriguing to see how Careers Advisors felt about ICT as a career and it’s place in careers education. Respondents noted that roughly three out four students had a limited or no understanding of the career opportunities the ICT sector presented.

When delving deeper it becomes clear that driving this lack of student awareness are two aspects: One, a lack of interesting, up-to-date information and, two, a lack of awareness from teachers and parents of the ICT sector.

This viewpoint from Careers Advisors is consistent with the views of many ICT sector employers. Fundamentally, employers believe there is a complete lack of awareness from both young people and their parents/caregivers of the ICT career space. In addition, employers feel that there is a lack of quality technology in schools, what is available is out-dated and that many teachers lack a comprehensive understanding of the digital environment.

Furthermore, employers have noted that maths and science subjects at secondary school provide keys skills for the ICT industry, yet these subjects are not seen as ‘cool’. The lack of interest that accompanies this has a flow on effect toward the perception of ICT employers. Are students really aware of who New Zealand’s largest ICT employers are? Vodafone and 2degrees are well known companies with a wide range of exciting employment opportunities. Xero is one of New Zealand’s leading international organisations providing cutting edge cloud based software to the world. Deloitte is one of the world’s largest accounting firms, yet, ICT is one of their fastest growing work streams. These are a mere fraction of the global, market leading organisations that have a large number of exciting opportunities Young New Zealanders should be excited by these opportunities rather than seeing them, and the subjects required to reach them as ‘uncool’. The challenge lies in changing the mind-sets of New Zealand’s youth.

We only hear “geeky” stories about ICT careers

“Parent’s do not think ICT is a real job”

Teacher in our schoos l are not really interested “We live in a rura community where IClT is not really a function of everyday life”

“Girls are not really interested”

The points of view from both careers advisers, educators and employers showcase that significant work is required in this area from all parties. One such means of creating change could be an education and awareness campaign, presented throughout New Zealand. Schools’ need quality, up-to-date information to excite and encourage New Zealand’s youth. Examining the techniques of those schools with highly engaged students and sharing them throughout the country can establish best practice guidelines.

Finally, there needs to be education for parents, teachers and influencers, to increase awareness about the numerous exciting employment opportunities the ICT sector provides and the technical skills these leading employers are looking for.

Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

17

LOGISTICS

Transport your Dreams Around the Globe with Mainfreight If you have the drive to deliver, then Mainfreight might be the company for you! Jake Pascoe shared his story with us, describing a journey that started with a childhood of driving trucks on his family’s farm, and which has led to him becoming one of Mainfreight’s European Trade Managers.

What made you interested in getting a role with Mainfreight?

Learning to drive trucks from a young age on the farm sparked an interest in me, and working in the industry throughout my school years gave me a really good knowledge base. After school, the opportunity arose to work in Mainfreight’s Air & Ocean sector, and I was keen to get involved in this new and challenging part of the logistics industry.

NAME Jake Pascoe

AGE 25 ORGANISATION Mainfreight Group ROLE European Trade Manager for

Australia and New Zealand

HIGH SCHOOL St Kentigern College

Describe your journey, the roles you’ve had and where you are now.

My journey so far has definitely had its ups and downs, but the ups sure outweigh the downs! I started in our export LCL (Less than Container Load) team in Carotrans, Mainfreight’s global wholesale brand. It was a great starting point, and a position that taught me to consistently be on my game.

From there, I worked in a range of different Mainfreight departments.

First, I was offered a position in our Auckland sales support team, while simultaneously working with our global CIO to build a website for online product purchases. I was able to continue as a full-time external new business rep in our Auckland sales team for a year; and when the Auckland Sales Manager left, I managed to secure his position. This role involved driving the Auckland sales team, with a focus on new business, while also working with the account management team to serve and retain our current customers. Our hard work was rewarded when we were named the New Zealand Sales Team of the Year.

After only being in the role for 18 months, I had the opportunity to take up my present role as the European Trade Manager for Australia and NZ. It’s largely a sales-based role, which aims to grow trade between Europe and Oceania for both Air- and Sea Freight.

What are your career goals?

My career goal within Mainfreight would be to run and be responsible for a region – for example, the European CEO.

What would be your advice to others wanting to work at Mainfreight?

If you work hard, have fun and get involved, then there isn’t too much you can’t achieve in our business.

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MANUFACTURING

CUTTING EDGE CAREERS & TRAINING OFFERED BY CHH WOODPRODUCTS NEW ZEALAND Opportunities for talented and agile minds start with us.

Your career, your goals, your drive plus our support and training mean that the possibilities are infinite. Join our CHH Woodproducts NZ team and be part of a business providing building blocks for New Zealand home owners and their dreams. That’s what we are all about - simple yet spectacular.

Jobs to start your career

Why join us?

Snapshot of the possibilities:

We have sites in many different regions of our beautiful and resourceful country, so there’s something for everyone.

• Machine Operators

• Apprenticeships

• Fork Hoist Operators

• Mechanical & Electrical Engineers

• Timber Machinists

• Timber & Saw Doctoring

Apprenticeships

Starting in Operations? You can gain hands on practical experience, study at the same time and gain a National qualification or Apprenticeship, all whilst earning a great hourly rate and awesome benefits... sounds like the best of both worlds!

An awesome way to learn hands on the job is by working alongside our technical experts on a day to day basis, we offer a variety of apprenticeship programs in electrical and mechanical engineering and timber machining. There are so many avenues you can aspire to for future career paths.

What do we offer?

Wood Manufacturing Qualifications

The building blocks for your career Once you’ve started with us, we envisage your career with us to be great! That’s why we invest in our people through succession planning and career development. You’ll have access to internal training programmes that have been tailor built for us and our people, as well as the expertise of a number of industry specialists.

Partnering with our Industry Training Organisation Competenz, we support our people in gaining a range of qualifications across the likes of saw doctoring, solid wood manufacturing and wood fibre manufacturing. As a new entry you may do a National Certificate to gain your first qualification, or a Diploma in technical aspects of our industry. We also support membership in a number of standard industry bodies.

Cutting Edge Operators At Carter Holt Harvey we recognise that a career needs a beginning. As operators at our wood manufacturing sites we provide a platform for learning in helping you build capability in essential skills relevant at work and at home.

Cutting Edge People This high rating program is for non-management employees to build the skills required to be a Manager in our business. These are people of influence in business support roles that are critical to our corporate and sites’ successes.

Cutting Edge Leaders

With five major manufacturing plants located in Northland, the Central North Island and top of the South Island, you’ll be right in amongst where all the action happens!

Supervisors in our business hold a key position in leading teams on the shop floor. Having the right skills to lead people is essential to being successful in this role. This program is structured to take you on a learning journey to discover your capabilities as a leader in our business.

Health & Safety Representative Training We have an on-going commitment to ensure all our sites are well represented on Health & Safety committees and we provide Health & Safety Representative training at Levels 1, 2 and 3.

If you’re eager to learn, willing to get stuck in and give new things a go, practical and motivated then you should consider looking at a career with CHH Woodproducts NZ. We like to hear from people who are keen on mechanical or electrical engineering, so if pulling apart and rebuilding motors is something you do on the weekends or you enjoy hands on practical hobbies, it’s very likely the opportunities we offer may be right for you.

Visit our website www.chhwoodproducts.co.nz/why-join-us to find out more about our training and benefits packages for permanent staff members.

Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

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ACCOUNTING

Jetting to a Brighter Future NAME: Saimon Lomaloma, CA

Don’t put a Limit on your Career Options Ask yourself: What do you love the most? Who do you want work for? Where do you want to live?

What is your current role?

My current role as Owner of Jetboards NZ encompasses everything that relates to day-to-day business operations.

Study business now and at university with a focus on accounting, then you will be on your way to being able to work in any industry and live just about anywhere. You will experience a wide variety of opportunities through becoming a Chartered Accountant.

How did you get to where you are today?

You will steer the direction and success of business, and lead industry thinking to make a positive difference in the world.

I studied Accounting at Victoria University of Wellington, and also took papers in Law. I realised that regardless of whether I wanted to go into an accounting, an Accounting degree would equip me with a financial background and understanding to apply to any career.

As a Chartered Accountant you can take your pick of industries you want to work in. Live and work the way you choose, with skills that are sought after by a wide range of employers here and overseas.

What are Chartered Accountants or CAs? The Chartered Accountant post-graduate designation is affiliated with two of the world’s largest accounting alliances; the Global Accounting Alliance (GAA) and Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW).

Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand is a professional body of over 115,000 diverse, talented and financially astute members who use their skills every day to make a difference for businesses and communities all over the world.

Chartered Accountants display exceptional thinking and have a superior grasp of business that truly marks them unique in the marketplace. They work at some of the highest levels in business in some of the world’s largest organisations. CAs can apply their skills to business challenges in virtually every sphere of business - from audit and tax, to corporate finance, to management and leadership in a rich variety of enterprises around the globe. The possibilities are endless.

Around the world there are over 2.5 million qualified accountants including chartered, certified, management, practicing, professional, and technicians among others. Each have completed various professional accountancy qualifications, and have different knowledge, skills and experience to suit their specific field.

Being a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand sets you up to thrive in business and the world.

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ROLE: Owner/Operator at Jetboards NZ

NextStep//ISSUE 6

When I was still at school, I didn’t necessarily enjoy accounting, but I knew I was good at it, so I thought an Accounting degree would be a good choice.

Nearing the end of my degree, I went for an internship with BDO, after that, I moved to London to work for BDO. I started Jetboards NZ as a lifestyle business to fill a gap in the New Zealand market as well as allowing me to spend more time doing what I loved. I realised that I had found a real niche in regional water sports, so worked to make my passion my career.

How has being a CA changed your life?

Being a Chartered Accountant provided many skills that helped achieve my personal goals by giving me a lot of career flexibility.

I wanted to have enough money to do the things that I want to be doing, I wanted to have a lifestyle with my family and the freedom not to be restricted. The CA skills I acquired allowed me to start my own business, and gave me the choice to do anything I wanted to do – I didn’t necessarily have to stay in a CA firm to achieve my goals. I was thinking, ‘if I could be doing something that I don’t really consider work, getting personal satisfaction out of other people having a good time and being around that positive energy. If I could trade that for the office, I would’.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

One career highlight would be my CA graduation. During the graduation they had a guest speaker who was a business owner of a successful craft beer company. He was a CA, describing his story, and I was sitting there thinking, “Wow, that’s so awesome.” Then two years later, I ended up speaking to new members in Germany about my story. So, I guess that was a bit of a personal achievement.

Any advice for those considering following the CA path?

A modern CA has to have a wide range of skills, and be open to endless opportunities. You have to be agile, a confident decisionmaker and adaptable to a consistently changing role.

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NAME: Hannah Howard, CA ROLE: Group Finance Manager,

My Food Bag

What is your current role?

I am currently the Group Finance Manager for My Food Bag, one of New Zealand’s fastest growing companies and a trail blazer in the ‘recipe-and-ingredient delivery service’ industry in New Zealand.

ACCOUNTING

Feeding a Passion for Numbers

How did you get to where you are today?

Finishing my Bachelor of Commerce with majors in accounting and commercial law set me up well for my first role out of University. I was an intern at Deloitte in my penultimate year of study and then took up a full time graduate position in the Deloitte Private Tax & BAS team. It was during this time that I completed the Chartered Accountants Program and was signed off as a CA. After close to 4 years at Deloitte, I knew I wanted to take the leap and try out commercial finance. A few different opportunities came up and it was one of the partners in my team who encouraged me to hold out for a position with a company that was dynamic and offered significant growth opportunities. That’s when the financial accountant role with My Food Bag came up. At that time, My Food Bag was garnering a lot of momentum and building a strong name for itself in New Zealand. In all honesty, I didn’t tick all the boxes that the job ad required – but I applied anyway, which is something I encourage more women to do. I’m a quick thinker, a fast learner and had built a good network at Deloitte so I backed myself to be able to perform well in role.

Luckily, the CFO at My Food Bag also shared this view and took me on board.

How has being a CA changed your life?

After completing a degree in accounting and with a desire to build a strong career in finance, becoming a CA was never a question. Chartered Accountants ANZ have built a reputable designation that is sought after and well respected amongst finance professionals. I knew that in completing the CA Program, I’d gain valuable skills that would put me in good stead and that I could leverage off throughout my career. Not only that, in completing the program while working, I’d be able to integrate the knowledge into my day to day work and fasttrack my career progression.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

Being a CA was pivotal in getting me to my position as Group Finance Manager of My Food Bag. It taught me to be curious, to be resourceful, to challenge the status quo, to learn about business and not just finance. It’s provided me with many opportunities to date and will no doubt provide me with many opportunities in the future. Becoming a CA is not about learning what the numbers are, but why they are what they are.

Value-add is what makes a finance professional good, and the CA program really develops these skills.

Any advice for those considering following the CA path? Being a CA adds instant credibility to your portfolio of skills, and shows that you have a desire to be a life-long learner. Speaking from experience, it’s big tick when recruiting new members of our team. Becoming a part of the CA family means you have on-going access to a range of professional development opportunities and will always have a broad network of support. In short, my advice would be to get into it!

Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

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ACCOUNTING

A Week in the Life of Hamish Jolly, CA NAME: Hamish Jolly, CA Hamish Jolly is anything but a traditional accountant. He’s a research program director and helps commercialise science and technology products. Jolly has helped shark deterrent technology become commercially viable and is extremely passionate about marine science. He launched his career with former Big Four firm Arthur Andersen where he learned “accountancy is essentially the language of business”.

ROLE: Innovator and Research

Director, Australian Institute of Marine Science

Jolly’s the type of person who has “no issue getting out of the bed in the morning” and doesn’t have a typical work week (working hard even on weekends) to bring an ethical and professional approach to all his undertakings. Here, he shares a typical week.

Sunday I jump on a plane to Darwin and from there I’m out to an offshore island to discuss a marine science project with the island’s traditional owners. This project is about mapping an ecological survey of the marine estate surrounding the island for the better management of sea country. On the plane, I can catch up on lots of emails and prepare for the week. My ‘Ideas Worth Sharing’ video on TED.com is one way people find out about the work I do. I try and make time to connect with them, respond to enquiries and answer questions that people from all over the world ask.

Monday After my island experience, I fly back to Perth. I’ve got a road show presentation to stockbroking firms in preparation for capital raising and potential ASX listing – or initial public offering – of a new marine and Biotechnology Company focused on mitigating the risk of shark attack, including the Clever Buoy, which uses sonar tech to autonomously detect and alert for sharks. I’ve collaborated with Optus and Google on this project. I spend the day on teleconference calls to technology suppliers in Australia, USA and UK and coordinate the delivery of the Clever Buoy commercial-ready prototype, which was deployed in a 30-day trial off a NSW beach early in 2016.

Tuesday I host a site visit for potential partners and investors at a biogas waste to energy plant we developed in WA. The plant uses anaerobic digestion – a series of processes in which microorganisms break down biodegradable material without using oxygen – to turn 50,000 tonnes a year of food waste diverted from landfill into two megawatts of renewable electricity every hour. Also, today I’m in negotiations and discussions with commercial food processors for the roll out of biogas plants around Australia.

Wednesday Time for my pre-work morning ocean swim at Cottesloe Beach to help me prepare for the 20km Rottnest Channel Swim with the team. Then it’s on to a day of meetings with oil and gas companies and regulators to discuss applied marine research

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NextStep//ISSUE 6

relevant to the sector. Later I run workshop sessions with marine scientists at the Australian Institute of Marine Science, CSIRO and University of Western Australia Oceans Institute regarding the evolving blueprint for marine science in WA. I’m working to coordinate the registration of our 30-hectare sandalwood plantation in south-west WA, so I spend some more time on the phone to qualify for carbon credits under the Australian Government’s Carbon Farming Initiative.

Thursday I’m up early and on a boat to Rottnest Island to meet onsite with my business partner who runs our ice-creamery and coffee house on the island. The island’s packed with holiday-goers enjoying themselves. I watch customers playing our newly launched Archery Tag game, where punters can (safely) shoot each other Hunger Games-style with soft-tipped arrows. We secured a licence for the concept from the USA. Next up is lunch and a beer at the Rottnest Hotel looking out over the crystal-clear bay full of pleasure boats. Then it’s back on my boat and over to Fremantle, bouncing through a strong sea breeze.

Friday Most of the day Friday is spent preparing for a flight to Cape Town over the weekend. I’m heading there to spend three weeks on board a research vessel testing shark attack mitigation technologies with Mossel Bay’s great white shark population.

Wish me luck!

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31ober

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.co.nz

schoolconnect take the next step

.co.nz

schoolconnect A sk Live online forum

uesti take theqnext step ons and get feedback

Here’s your chance to get up close to some of the biggest companies and institutes in New Zealand!

A live online forum will be hosted on the SchoolConnect website for you to interact with companies and institutes, from the likes of Toyota to Waiariki.

Ask questions, get feedback and carve your career path now!

If you want your school to be involved or want further information email Maddy at maddyg@schoolconnect.co.nz or visit www.schoolconnect.co.nz/careersweek Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

23

Is Tomorrow a Mystery?

Let us Help you Solve it!

Can’t picture your future? Lost in a sea of options and unsure of which one to swim towards?

Never fear – we consulted career counsellors Sally Graham and Debbie Driver, who shared some words of wisdom about plannin g your future. To study or not to study, to live in a hall or to go flatting – Sally and Debbie cover all of these options and more!

further study or not?

Sally Graham

For those students unsure of whether they should go on to do further study or not, what do they need to consider?

1. Identify the jobs that suit your strengths and interests, and their job prospects 2. Investigate the study/training options available for your preferred jobs. Check out on-the-job training, cadetships, apprenticeships 3. Consider part-time or distance study 4. You’ll be spending money to equip yourself with skills and knowledge that will make you useful in the workforce – so consider it ‘good debt’ 5. Statistics show that qualifications lead to higher pay and better job prospects in the long term, so it makes sense to gain these early on.

How could a student determine which type of institution to attend (i.e. University, Polytechnic, Private Training Establishment)?

First, it’s important to understand what distinguishes these three types of institutions: • Universities: There is an emphasis on independent study, and often there’s the option of studying two qualifications simultaneously • Polytechnics: They tend to have smaller classes with a more hands-on learning style • PTEs: They also have small classes, and lots of one-on-one interaction with teachers.

What a qualification from these kinds of institutions can lead to: • Universities: University study can lead directly into specific jobs; or it can be used to gain a general education in a certain field, which can be applied to a variety of jobs within that sector • Polytechnics: Polytech study usually leads to vocational jobs • PTEs: PTE’s offer specialised areas of learning, and therefore lead into careers in these areas.

Where can you get more information?

• Go to career expos, and tertiary providers’ open days • Talk to your school’s careers adviser, and tertiary education providers • Talk to your wha- nau or other people in your community.

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NextStep//ISSUE 6

Halls vs flatting Debbie Driver

a) F or first-year university students who are unsure if they should go to university halls or go flatting straightaway, what should they consider?

b) If students need some help with budgeting in their first year away from home, where would you suggest they could go to find information about this?

a) If you’re thinking about moving into a hall of residence, here are some points to consider:

• Halls offer cooked meals, gyms, laundry, and access to TV and wireless internet. They also provide both academic and emotional support; and hall living is a great way to meet new friends • Think about the hall culture. Are you required to participate in certain activities, or attend any formal occasions?

• Consider the size and costs. Is the hall too big for your liking?

Are there any scholarships available that could help you pay for hall accommodation?

• Investigate to see if there are any special features offered by a hall – such as alcohol-free floors, all-female floors, academic support, free shuttle buses, and extracurricular opportunities.

b) If you’re considering flatting, here are some things to think about: What kinds of people would you like to flat with?

• Consider your preferred gender ratio • Consider the values that will be compatible with your own - if you’re vegan or vegetarian, can you flat with meat-eaters?

• Be aware of your own expectations – in terms of tidiness, cooking responsibilities, finances, and noise level – and the expectations of your potential flatmates • Your best friends are not necessarily the best flatmates, as you could fall out with them over flat-related issues!

Consider the rent cost, and what the landlord is like.

• Will the landlord provide good support if there is an issue?

• What does the rent pay for? Are the facilities decent?

What about parking opportunities, security levels, and storage space? Does the flat come with any furniture?

Think about the location.

• How close is it to places you’ll need to get to regularly, such as uni? How much does transport cost? Can you walk?

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COMMERCE COMMERCE

Finding inspiration at home and around the world Studying at Victoria has introduced Selbi Soylemezoglu to the world of business and shown her just how far she can take her dreams.

S

elbi planned to study commercial law and marketing at Victoria but once she got to university and saw the variety of courses on offer she was inspired to explore areas she hadn’t previously considered.

“I’d always enjoyed entrepreneurship and businessrelated subjects. When I got to Victoria, I found an array of courses within the commerce discipline that really matched my areas of interest.

“I had taken information technology at high school and decided to give Management Information Studies a go. I was intrigued by it.”

Selbi has added an international flavour to her studies, both in and outside the class room.

“As part of my Management Information Studies course, I took part in the Global Enterprise Experience, where students are grouped into virtual global teams to find solutions to a current problem.

“It was an amazing experience to work with people from around the world. It was enlightening to see how they approached business and how they were learning at their respective universities.”

Selbi also travelled to Texas to study in a completely different environment, something that she says helped her to grow personally and academically.

“My Victoria Abroad Exchange to Texas was the best thing I ever did. It opened my eyes to the

STUDY AT VICTORIA APPLY NOW victoria.ac.nz/apply

world and I learnt a lot about myself as a person and also about how the world works in different ways.”

Selbi is using the range of experiences she has had at Victoria to build a plan for a bright future in business in New Zealand.

“I’ve always had a passion for corporate social responsibility.

My commerce degree has really given me a platform to stand on to help businesses give back to the community.”

HEALTH

BROTHERS IN CHIROPRACTIC DRS ADRIAN AND MICHAEL STOCCO TALK ABOUT STUDYING AND WORKING AS CHIROPRACTORS How did you decide on a career in chiropractic?

Adrian: I was under care with a chiropractor from the age of 12 and I really looked forward to my check each month. It just made sense to pursue a career.

Michael: Being under chiropractic care through sport, and seeing the changes with myself and with the people around me, I saw chiropractic as the perfect balance for allowing people to function optimally whilst being able to help people at the same time.

What year did you graduate, and what a are you doing now?

Adrian: I graduated in 2008. I was an associate in a practice in Brisbane for two years, then moved back to Auckland. After about eight months and an inspiring LYCEUM chiropractic conference, I decided it was time to open my own practice in Devonport.

Dr Adrian Stocco Michael: I graduated in 2015, and I am currently an associate practising at Mt. Eden Chiropractic with Chiropractors Dr Simon Kelly and Dr Patrick Fong some call them the Gurus of Chiropractic.

How did you find studying at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic?

Adrian: I enjoyed my time at the NZCC. I always had a feeling of gratitude to be able to study chiropractic. I wouldn’t say I was the role model student in my first few years, but moving into the Chiropractic Centre was a real trigger to start growing up. I found the studying experience quite life-changing when I look back.

Dr Michael Stocco 6 Harrison Road, Mt Wellington, Auckland, 1060 +64 9 526 6789 admissions.assist@nzchiro.co.nz www.chiropractic.ac.nz facebook.com/nzchiro 26

NextStep//ISSUE 6

Michael: Studying at the NZCC was fun and challenging all at the same time - fun as you instantly make a bunch of new friends from the start, and challenging as you fly through your first few years. I am grateful towards the NZCC in what they have taught me and the skills that I have developed.

PLUMBING

IT’S A PLUMB JOB Both practical and book-smart?

Ryan McQuade takes on physical and mental challenges every day as an apprentice plumber and gas-fitter for E.G. Glennie & Co.

M Ryan Meet cQuad e

What are you training towards?

I’m in my second year of a four-year plumbing and gas-fitting apprenticeship through Masterlink at Wellington firm E.G. Glennie & Co.

Why did you choose plumbing?

I’ve always enjoyed being practical and hands-on. Plumbing is physically challenging but there’s also a lot to get your head around, which is good.

What kind of work do you do each day?

E.G. Glennie & Co is a cool company to work for because they do everything. I could be piping out the water and waste for a bathroom alteration, installing a gas continuous flow hot water system, or doing commercial maintenance work.

As an apprentice, I go out on jobs with a registered tradesperson, who supervises my work. I’m not always with the same person. You learn different things from different people.

How did you get into the apprenticeship?

After leaving high school in Napier, I did a plumbing and gas-fitting pretrade course at Unitec in Auckland. This wasn’t compulsory, but it gave me a good grounding and made things easier for me when I started work.

I moved to Wellington and tried to find an apprenticeship with a plumbing firm. E.G. Glennie’s was the first company I contacted because someone recommended them to me. There was no vacancy at the time, but I called them each month to see if anything had come up.

I also signed up with Masterlink, a nationwide scheme that employs apprentices in plumbing, gas-fitting, drain-laying and roofing and places them with firms for their on-the-job training.

What about learning the theory?

Every 17 weeks or so, I go to WelTec for a one-week block course to be assessed on my theory studies.

Bob McCoy, my Masterlink Regional Manager, also meets with my boss and me every quarter to discuss progress. It’s nice to have this support, and I wouldn’t hesitate to go to Bob if I ever needed anything.

How is your apprenticeship going?

I’m enjoying it. I was really surprised and happy to be nominated by my boss recently for a Plumbing World Scholarship. I was one of five Masterlink apprentices to receive the $1,000 scholarship at the 2016 New Zealand Plumbing Awards.

I don’t see plumbing as a job, but as a career where you can make good money. There’s plenty of opportunity for growth and someday I’d like to run my own business.

You get paid while you do the apprenticeship and they make it easier for you by sorting all your safety gear, tools and block courses. They also pay your training fees for the whole four years.

After six months, EG Glennie’s took me on as a Masterlink apprentice, so I ended up working where I’d hoped to be.

Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

27

GOVERNMENT

Coasting Through a Career in Resource Management Keen on natural resource management or urban planning?

Next Step spoke with Brendon Hewett from the Waikato Regional Council to find out about how he got his foot in the door to this exciting career.

What study or on the job training did you do to get into your current role?

Prior to my current role, I was an arborist. After a few years in this job I decided I needed a change so enrolled myself at Massey University to complete a Bachelor of Science, however, ended up changing my degree to complete an Honours degree in Resource and Environmental Planning.

On the job training commenced as soon as I started with the council.

We covered basic things such as in-house resource consent, process training , investigation skills training, erosion and sediment control practices and assertiveness training.

Waikato Regional Council also encourage staff to attend workshops and conferences that relate to your field. For example I have been able to attend the New Zealand Coastal Society Conference and a Coastal Engineering short course which was offered as part of the Australasian Coasts and Ports Conference.

What does your working day usually involve?

My main role is to implement the Resource Management Act (RMA).

This includes processing and monitoring resource consents, helping with queries from the public and providing them with the best advice possible. A large chunk of my job also revolves around coastal activities i.e. anything to do with jetties, sea walls and moorings. I also get the opportunity to work in other areas such as earthworks and large scale mining operations.

What are the main interpersonal skills you need to do your job?

The main one is hands down good communication skills. The ability to put yourself in other people’s shoes and get an idea of where they are coming from is vital. Working with others to achieve great outcomes is part of the Waikato Regional Council mission statement and a really important part of resource management. Alongside this, the ability to take technical information and put into everyday language for the public is important.

For students looking to get into your line of work, what would your top three tips be?

NAME

Brendon Hewett

ORGANISATION YOU WORK FOR

Waikato Regional Council ROLE Coasts

& Inland Waters, Resource Use Directorate HIGH SCHOOL

Bay of Islands College

TERTIARY EDUCATION Massey

University

DEGREE Bachelor of Resource and Environmental Planning (Honours) minor in Physical Geography

1. Figure out what interests you about resource management.

There are a number of different pathways you can take. The two main areas would be natural resource management (land, air, water and coast) or urban town planning. Once you have figured this out, try to aim your studies at that.

2. Try and get practical work experience.

Any practical experience in consulting or within councils before completing your degree would be ideal. Waikato Regional Council often have summer student opportunities and the work can be really interesting! If you can’t find work within the planning field any ‘real world’ experience in the workforce is really useful.

3. There are many degrees you can do to get into resource management. I would recommend doing a New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI) recognised planning degree as this is much more specific to the RMA.

Find out more about planning: www.careers.govt.nz/jobs-database /government-law-and-safety/government/urbanregional-planner Find us at careers.govt.nz 28

NextStep//ISSUE 6

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The Grass is Always Greener...

Keen on getting involved in New Zealand’s largest export industry?

Next Step spoke to Nick Rayner from PGG Wrightson Seeds to find out the ins and outs of his career in the agriculture industry.

Prior to joining PGG Wrightson Seeds, I studied a Bachelor of AgriScience majoring in Agriculture at Massey University. Over the years, I have experienced significant training throughout my various roles. PGG Wrightson Seeds is fantastic at supporting any training they believe you need, or want to pursue.

AGRICULTURE

What study or on the job training did you do to get into your current role?

What does your working day usually involve?

My working day varies depending on the time of the year, as it is seasonal. Typically I am on a farm, checking crops and pastures and finding and developing solutions to problems.

I also undertake product trainings, updating sales representatives on the best practices for growing our product. As a Forage Agronomist I manage trials throughout the North Island, maintaining, measuring and analysing data.

What are the main interpersonal skills you need to do your job?

Communication skills. Relating to farmers and the agriculture community is important. Understanding the agricultural terms, the farming systems and finding common ground and being relatable is huge.

Time management is also critical. PGG Wrightson Seeds is a relatively fast paced organisation where planning 2-3 weeks in advance is important.

How has your role in the agriculture industry evolved over the last 5 – 10 years?

The New Zealand agricultural industry has advanced significantly, farms are getting bigger which means stock need more feed and there are higher production requirements. There is a lot more pressure on the land to produce. Alongside this, farming technology and industry standards have improved dramatically allowing for these increased demands to be met ethically.

NAME

Agronomist roles such as mine allow farmers to receive free advice on the products they are growing. This makes sure they get optimum results and apply best practices.

Nick Rayner

ORGANISATION YOU WORK FOR PGG

Wrightson Seeds

ROLE North

Island Forage Agronomist

HIGH SCHOOL

New Plymouth Boys High School

TERTIARY EDUCATION Massey

University

DEGREE Bachelor of AgriScience majoring

in Agriculture

From a personal perspective, I grew up on a dairy farm, and throughout my degree, worked on a range of farms. This experience provided me with in depth insight into the wider agricultural industry. I then landed a sales role with an agricultural company and picked up lots of training there. Following this, I moved into my current role with PGG Wrightson Seeds.

I guess the longer you spend in this industry, the more well-rounded and knowledgeable you become, allowing you to significantly advance your career.

What advice would you give students looking to get into the agriculture industry?

What does PGG Wrightson Seeds do?

PGG Wrightson Seeds is New Zealand’s largest seed company, providing farmers with proprietary grass and forage seeds that provide high quality feed for improved animal performance. PGG Wrightson Seeds has been helping farmers for over 150 years, with a key focus on research and development.

I would say any experience on a farm or within the agriculture industry is good experience. In particular, summer work such as milking cows will be of huge benefit, allowing you to gain an understanding of how the industry works.

If you do not have direct contacts within this industry, there are variety of training organisations that offer farming training.

Find out more about being a Forage Agronomist: www.careers.govt.nz/jobs-database/farming -fishing-forestry-and-mining/agriculture-horticulture/agricultural-field-representative Find us at careers.govt.nz Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

29

IT

Send your Career into Cyberspace NAME Shamitha

Muthumala

ROLE Cyber,

Privacy and Resilience Consultant

DELOITTE OFFICE Auckland

Victoria University of Wellington DEGREE Bachelor of Commerce and Administration (Honours) HIGH SCHOOL Aotea College in Porirua, Wellington INSTITUTION

Interested in being a protector of the net?

Put your talents to use by pursuing a career in Risk Advisory with Deloitte.

We asked Shamitha some questions What is your role at Deloitte?

I am currently working as a Cyber, Privacy and Resilience Consultant in the Risk Advisory team at Deloitte Auckland.

What do you do on an average day?

Cybersecurity is a very hot topic amongst our clients these days, which means we get to take on a variety of different jobs. We have done various types of cybersecurity health checks to help our clients identify the current gaps in their cybersecurity practices, the risks that arise from keeping these gaps open, and providing pragmatic recommendations on how they can remediate these areas of weakness and the benefits it will provide to the organisation. We also take on the more technical types of jobs, such as penetration testing. This is where we try and put ourselves into the shoes of an actual hacker and attempt to exploit a client’s corporate network or web application. These jobs are extremely entertaining and allow us to think outside the box. We are able to identify gaps or weaknesses within an organisation’s environment which we could exploit to obtain sensitive information, such as customer, financial, or employee information. At the end of the day, each of the cybersecurity jobs we take on always comes back to protecting sensitive information that is managed via online services.

www.twitter.com/deloittegradsnz 30

NextStep//ISSUE 6

We work on cybersecurity jobs across numerous industries, consisting of both large and small organisations. It is very satisfying to see how much our clients can learn and understand the threats cyber present to their organisations, and spread this understanding and awareness across all levels within their organisations.

In addition to our cybersecurity services, we also operate within the privacy and resilience space. Privacy continues to be a key concern for some of our clients, so we help our clients to understand the types of information which they manage, classify the sensitivity of the information they manage, and determine controls which should be set in place. These controls assist them in protecting that information from unauthorised collection, use, storage or disclosure. Our resiliency jobs relate to better preparing our clients to detect, react, and respond to a variety of incidents which could impact their ability to operate and provide services to their customers, such as a natural disaster or cybersecurity breach.

What helped you get the role with Deloitte?

I was very privileged to be offered a graduate position in the Risk Advisory service line after completing my Honours degree in Wellington.

I chose Risk Advisory, and in particular Cyber, Privacy and Resilience, because it continues to be a constantly challenging and evolving space. I have almost completed my third year at Deloitte, and I am still loving it just as much as I did on day one!

What did you study?

I studied a Bachelor of Commerce and Administration (Honours) at Victoria University of Wellington majoring in Information Systems. To support my development in this area, I also took a handful of accounting, management, and e-commerce papers which I still apply during my dayto-day job.

What advice do you have for future students?

If you are into your last year of high school and you are not sure about your future career path, do not panic! This is absolutely normal. I didn’t know where I wanted to progress either until I researched the different study options that universities provided. I also made a list of things that I enjoy, and things that I know I am good at, and tried to align these areas to the study options to figure out what types of careers I may enjoy. University prepared me with all the theoretical knowledge and frameworks to understand the area of cybersecurity – and Deloitte is where I was able to transform that theoretical knowledge into a practical context. You are the driver of your own life, so be sure to select a career path that you think you will enjoy and love doing every day of your life!

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SOCIAL

Meet up

If you are moving to a new city and want to find people with similar interests to you, this is the perfect app to do so. On Meetup you have the option to specify your interests and join groups that are listed under that category.

LIFESTYLE

BrightNest

e n i l n & o s p i s T k c i tr EE

R r F t s s fo e B The ile app ents! mob stud

If you are flatting for the first time this app is ideal when it comes to tips and tricks for flat cleaning and maintenance. It’s an app with all the lifehacks you will need.

SOCIAL/FITNESS

HeyFit

MONEY

Moving to a new city to study and want to meet new people? heyfit allows you to connect with like-minded people using social sport as the excuse. Find a running partner, a yoga group or a pick up game of basketball.

STORAGE

DROPBOX

Adjusting to a student budget can be difficult.

This app can help you work to a budget and provide a breakdown of your weekly/monthly expenses.

Perfect if you need to save for flights home or a night out.

KEEP HEALTHY

Upload different files (documents, photos, videos) in the cloud and get them online whenever you need.

Workout Trainer

This app is good for when you need a study break or just don’t have time for the gym.

Store your files in Dropbox, and share them with friends without any fear of losing important and useful data.

PRODUCTIVITY

Pocket Expense

The images show you what to do and the timer makes sure you get a decent workout in. The best bit is there is no equipment needed, making it easy to do a quick workout in your room at the hostel.

Evernote Scannable

No doubt you will find yourself bombarded with pieces of paper at university. Use this app to scan the important information you need and refer back to it whenever!

Check out schoolconnect.co.nz

Find Great ideas and Tips here!

MENTAL HEALTH

Pacifica

Stress and anxiety is something a lot of students experience at university. With this app you can help manage your happiness by tracking your moods, be guided through meditation and be part of a supportive community.

Want more info? Go to www.schoolconnect.co.nz

31

Study, work, career, travel‌so many choices.

Too many choices.

You only need ONE website to make your decision.

Take the next step with www.schoolconnect.co.nz www.facebook.com/schoolconnectnz

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