Principal tutor for automotive, Tim Jagusch

The new automotive programme at EIT Tairawhiti has been welcomed by students and industry alike…but it comes with a warning.

Principal tutor Tim Jagusch, who heads the National Certificate in Motor Industry (Automotive, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering) Light Vehicle Strand Level 3, says industry are very clear on just what kind of students they expect to graduate.

“They want to see graduates with a keen work ethic, a good educational background and an exceptional attitude,” says Jagusch, “so if you think this is a course you may look at in the future, get your studies in order first.”

The course, aimed at school leavers who have achieved well in maths, english and the sciences, runs over two years. The first year is full time, with several options open in the second year that allows students to either continue, or work while studying.

All 16 places – 14 young men and two women – for the first year filled within a month, but that’s hardly surprising for Jagusch.

“This is an industry that is fast moving, with technology that is evolving at a rapid pace. It is a career path with a bright future and many options,” he says.

He encourages careers advisors and parents to be doing their own homework on what it takes to be part of such an exciting industry.

EIT have continued to invest in the trades. On the back of the $2.8 million trades and technology complex opened in 2012, a further $80,000 has been invested in supporting the new automotive course.

This course is industry driven, and it is crucial that students are motivated, with a good track record in education.

“Industry have said they are willing to be part of the work experience component for those students who do show drive and initiative.”