Ryan Falloon with automotive graduate John Kirkpatrick who has joined the team at AB Equipment

John Kirkpatrick was not sure where he saw his career heading, but studying at EIT Tairāwhiti helped him decide on a winning and in-demand path.

John studied the National Certificate in Motor Industry Level 3. His tutor set up a job interview with AB Equipment’s Gisborne Manager Erin Maule, which led to work as an apprentice Service Technician.

“A diesel mechanic was not something I ever thought I would be but it’s cool, you get to work on things like forklifts and a wide range of construction machinery.”

John says he would definitely recommend going to EIT, for those who want to explore their options.

“Studying at EIT gave me those basic skills. They are also a great bunch of people down there and you make lots of friends.”

AB Equipment Service Technician Ryan Falloon, oversees John.

“It’s been quite good because it meant he was already setup with basic tooling skills.”

Ryan says coming from EIT meant John already had an idea of what the trade required, which helped him hit the ground running by having the mechanical skills to start the job with.