Apprentices hit gold standard
Two female MITO apprentices have made history after taking out two top annual awards handed out by the Collision Repair Association (CRA).
Sidney Clow, from Matamata Panelworks 2000, won the Golden Gun award for vehicle refinishing and Victoria Hine, from Fine Finish Ltd, scooped the Golden Hammer award for collision repair.
The pair were presented with their prizes at the CRA Annual Conference held in Auckland this month.
The two CRA Apprentice of the Year awards recognise dedication, focus and commitment to learning, as well as practical abilities, quality workmanship and study achievements.
Clow has a New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Refinishing and says she enjoys specialising in that area.
“My passion for the automotive industry grew into something more serious during a college networking event, that opened my eyes to the potential of a challenging yet fulfilling career,” she adds.
“The satisfaction of seeing a beautifully repaired and painted car is a feeling hard to beat. The constant strive to achieve perfection with colour matching and finishes keeps everyday exciting.”
Hine’s passion for vehicle repairs came about after her Nissan Skyline went to a panel shop and she was shown around the premises.
“I found it interesting and was inspired to try it out for myself,” she explains. “I enjoy panel beating, it feels more impact is made visually when repairing while keeping track of all the details to have a rewarding outcome.”
Verna Niao, MITO executive director, and Warren Flowerday, CRA president, presented the awards and congratulated Clow and Hine on their achievements.
“Women in the automotive industry are driving change,” says Niao. “Their diverse perspectives and expertise are essential to new way of thinking and shaping the future of the automotive industry.”
She also recognised the employers of the two golden winners. “Empowering their apprentices through professional training is an investment in the future. These employers help shape capable professionals and cultivate commitment, and standard of excellence within the industry."
Gus Gilmore, chief executive of Te Pukenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, adds he is delighted female apprentices took out both honours for the first time.
“This is a testament to the excellent work by all in growing our pipeline of women in traditionally men’s vocations and a huge demonstration of outstanding achievements by the two winners.”
