Dannevirke’s family-owned business Metalform has partnered with the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ) and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to provide six young men with a structured pathway to become qualified engineers.

Recently, the Mayor and MTFJ Coordinator Jaron Vince visited Metalform HQ on Miller Street to discuss the impact of this initiative with the management team and to find out from the young apprentices themselves what they have to say about the remarkable opportunity they have been given.

The six engineering apprentices, from left to right in the picture, Marek Howell (18), Ryan Emmerson (17), Caleb Keane (18), Matthew Ellis (19), Rhys Harris (16), and Saxon Te Papa (18)—are undergoing hands-on training under experienced lead hands like Richard Scrimshaw (Stainless Steel Fabrication) and Martjin Domper (Mild Steel Fabrication) also pictured. Metalform’s in-house mentors provide guidance, industry insights, and the support necessary for skill development. A key aspect of the programme is its holistic approach. The apprentices’ three-month induction includes fortnightly rotations through each of Metalform’s five departments – Mild Steel Fabrication, Stainless Steel Fabrication, Powder-coating/Painting, Laser Cutter Parts Sorting and CNC Brake Pressing/Folding. While improving their technical skills they will also gain essential workplace skills like teamwork, health & safety, problem-solving, communication and most importantly they can gain an understanding of where they fit in the “Big Picture”.

One common hurdle for young workers is the financial burden of acquiring tools and protective gear. MTFJ can remove these barriers by providing some of the necessary equipment, allowing apprentices to focus on their training. MSD’s Mana in Mahi Programme can also provide support on the employers side by mitigating some of the financial risks associated with hiring rangatahi (young people).

Without this support Metalform would have only hired 2-3 apprentices instead of the 6 young men they have today.

“This programme provides a fantastic opportunity—so take it and run with it,” said General Manager Jayden Timmins, emphasising the strong demand for skilled tradespeople in New Zealand. “Those who commit to learning and improving their skills will have a bright future.”

As for the apprentices, their experience so far has been positive, as they explained to Tracey that they are enjoying working and learning together as they can support each other and share their experiences, "this job is fun", "my parents are proud – although Mum and Dad are charging me board now!", "I'm learning heaps, Metalform is a great place to work" and "we're gaining skills that we can use on all sorts of projects at home, and Metalform is encouraging our creativity too".

The Mayor reflected on the importance of our local engineers especially when it came to the resilience of local infrastructure during Cyclone Gabrielle telling the apprentices "Despite the storm's force, many bridges in the hardest-hit areas remained standing - largely due to the outstanding workmanship of local engineers like the founder of Metalform and bridge builder – Bryce Easton".

Mayor Tracey has emphasised the broader significance of the MTFJ programme in the past, underscoring the importance of local partnerships in tackling youth unemployment.

“This initiative demonstrates how businesses and government programmes can collaborate to create lasting change. By investing in the futures of our rangatahi (young people), we are not only helping individuals build sustainable careers but also strengthening our local economy.”

For rural communities, opportunities in skilled trades are essential for economic development. By offering structured pathways into apprenticeships, businesses like Metalform are ensuring that rangatahi (young people) can stay within their communities while pursuing meaningful and rewarding careers. This initiative not only addresses the immediate employment needs of local youth but also contributes to building a resilient workforce for the future.

By fostering such partnerships, MTFJ and MSD continue to play a pivotal role in driving youth employment in rural New Zealand. The collaboration with Metalform serves as a model for other businesses and organisations looking to support young people in entering the workforce. With continued investment in trade education and apprenticeship programmes, New Zealand can ensure its youth have access to promising career opportunities, ultimately benefiting both individuals and the wider economy.