As this year’s handover breakfast, Instep Young Leaders announced their plans for 2021 to close the final handover event, Papamoa College’s Zane Gibbs drew the biggest applause of the bunch. Zane is taking up a building apprenticeship locally with NAS Construction.

In a group where heading onto university study is the norm, Zane describes himself as a competent student who gives everything a go. He is enthusiastic in continuing to develop his skillset through practical learning in a dynamic, hands-on working environment.  

He says it’s important for, “people to follow their passion. University isn’t the only benchmark of success. For someone who likes to use his hands, see projects take shape and to be outdoors, building is an attractive option for me.” The ability to earn while he learns and avoid a student loan was also factored into his decision.

Zane has a family history to call upon; both his father and grandfather were builders. It was dad – Rodney – who introduced Zane to the BCITO team and to fledgling building company NAS to arrange his apprenticeship. The Gibbs family have also been renovating a house; a project Zane has been fully involved in, taking the time to connect with and learn from the builders hired to lead the renovation. 

It’s accumulating direct experience with the building industry that he credits as the main driver for his decision, and something he recommends to others considering their future career options. “Get some experience and see if you like it, talk to people… put yourself out there. There’s nothing worse than sitting at home and just waiting for something to pop up.”

Looking forward to getting stuck in, learning the skills of the trade and forming relationships with building professionals, Zane is approaching 2021 with great optimism: “In 5 years I’d like to think I’m a fully qualified builder, using my skills and working towards buying my own house, to one day building my own house as well.”

All the best, Zane!