Shaun Whyte did not have long to wait until he put the skills learned at EIT to use.

Shaun graduated from EIT Tairāwhiti’s NZ Certificate in Forest Harvesting Operations [Level 3], a 20-week programme, in early March.

Just 48 hours later he started full-time employment with Blackstump Logging Ltd.

Shaun was working in a poorly paying job when he decided EIT was a good way out of the low-wage, low-skill trap.

Two months’ worth of pay packets later, he says he is pleased with his decision.

“I just wanted something different. There is a future in forestry and I wanted the tickets to start.”

Shaun was actually offered the job with Blackstump while on work placement with the company.

“I am loving it. I am a lot fitter now and I have more skills. Getting up early is not a problem now, so it was good to get used to it during the programme.”

Blackstump Logging owner-operator Wayne McEwan says team spirit, variety and earnings make forestry a great industry for young people to consider – especially as it gets more high-tech.

“I could see Shaun was really good straight away. He was getting out of bed early, showing up with a full lunchbox and working an honest day,” says Wayne.
“Anyone would have grabbed him.”