Nineteen years after graduating from EIT, Mark Poynter is back on campus to teach a new plumbing and gasfitting programme.

Mark, who has always lived in Taradale, says there is a great need for a pre-apprenticeship training in Hawke’s Bay.

“There is huge support for it among local plumbers as the closest other training facilities are in Hamilton and Wellington.”

President of Hawke’s Bay Master Plumbers Grayson Allen agrees, pointing out that his members see advantages in locally-based training. 

The cost and downtime involved in sending apprentices out of the region for block courses deters some potential employers from taking them on, he says, and if the programme proves successful there is potential to also offer block training sessions in Hawke’s Bay.  

 Members of Hawke’s Bay Master Plumbers have committed to supporting the new certificate programme by providing practical work assessments and on-job experience. 

Currently interviewing prospective students, Mark says those who complete the Certificate in Plumbing and Gasfitting (Level 3) programme will be better placed to secure positions in the industry.

“This is what plumbers are looking for – someone who has introductory skills and is work ready to start an apprenticeship.  The programme will encourage student independence and confidence to take responsibility for learning.”

Certificate holders can be employed by a plumber or plumbing and gasfitting contractor, and unit standards gained will count towards the National Certificate in Plumbing and Gasfitting (Level 4).

After 16 years in the industry, including seven years running his own successful business, Trade Mark Plumbing Services, Mark is excited about his new career direction.

“I’ve always loved the teaching side of things,” says the father-of-two.  “I was in the USA for four months as director of a riflery for a training camp.  I enjoyed that – every week was different and I absolutely loved being able to hand on my knowledge to others.”

EIT will enrol up to 20 students for the certificate programme’s inaugural intake in mid-March.

“Places are filling fast and I seriously think there won’t be any issues with getting the numbers.”   

As part of the full-time 30-week course, students will spend 22 contact hours each week in modern workshops provided in a newly-fitted out complex on the Hawke’s Bay campus.  

“The new plumbing facilities are equipped to engage and provide real world learning.  Industry plumbing and gasfitting suppliers are already on board, and offers of sponsorship and support have been tremendous.”

Mark says EIT’s layout and buildings have changed a great deal since he was a student in 1993-4.

After leaving Taradale High School, he studied for his Diploma in Farm Business Management at EIT and then worked in the farming sector for a few years.

Realising he wouldn’t be able to afford to buy his own farm, he did an adult apprenticeship in plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying through Christison plumbers – now Hawke’s Bay Waste Water Management. 

“I am now furthering my career in the industry as the tutor for the EIT programme.  I’ll be able to teach a wide range of skills, preparing students for ongoing learning and employment as apprentice plumbers and gasfitters.”