Josh Maka has been able to upskill at EIT while working at Advanced Automotive in Gisborne, with the Tairāwhiti local now working full-time as an Automotive Technician.
Originally from Tonga but raised in Tairāwhiti, the 23-year-old first enrolled in the NZ Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3) at EIT after spending a year working in horticulture following high school.
“I was interested in driving cars, but I never knew how to work on them. I found out EIT had an automotive course, and I just jumped on that.”
EIT Automotive Tutor Matt Clark presents Josh Maka with his NZ Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4).
Josh completed his level 3 qualification full-time before moving into the NZ Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4) while working at Advanced Automotive in Gisborne.
He says support from tutors at EIT played a major role in helping him enter the industry.
As part of the level 3 programme, students were encouraged to prepare CVs and approach local workshops looking for work opportunities.
“Some of the tutors at EIT knew the owners of Advanced Automotive, so they kind of helped me to get that job there.”
One of his tutors also acted as a reference.
Over the past three and a half years, Josh completed his level 4 qualification part-time while continuing to work full-time in the industry.
Josh says receiving his level 4 certificate earlier this year was a proud moment.
“I was quite happy with that one.”
While he says there is still plenty to learn in the industry, Josh hopes to continue building his skills and experience on the job.
“To probably have the same amount of knowledge as what my bosses and workmates have, really.”
Josh says he would recommend EIT to others interested in the automotive industry.
“It’s a good start into the industry.
“They help you towards going into a workshop, and they give you tips on how to do things and what workshops do differently.”
He says one of the highlights of studying at EIT was the support from tutors throughout both level 3 and level 4.
“All the tutors were nice and really helpful with everything.”
Todd Rogers, Head of School, School of Trades and Technology, says: “It is great to see our graduates continue their career pathway in their chosen industry”.