Whangarei's David McEwen wins award in annual flooring industry competition

Stage 2 Apprentice of the Year Award winner David McEwen with Deb Paul from the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation. Photo / Supplied

Being well prepared and meticulous has paid off for a Northland apprentice.

David McEwen has taken home an award at the annual Flooring Apprentice of the Year Awards held in Christchurch in July.

The event, held by the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation in conjunction with the National Flooring Association, honours excellence and dedication towards training.

The 34-year-old, who works for The Hardwood Guys in Whangarei and has been in training for three years, was awarded the Stage 2 Flooring Apprentice of the Year Award.

The award winners were selected based on the achievement and skills they displayed at courses provided by the Allied Trades Institute throughout the year.

"David was well prepared for his course and completed both theory and practical tasks meticulously. He was very passionate about his work," said Allied Trades Institute principal tutor Jeff Henry.

"All of this year's winners are strong role models for those who may be considering an apprenticeship in the flooring industry," said BCITO chief executive Warwick Quinn.

There has never been a better time to consider a career in the trades, said Mr Quinn.

"New Zealand is in the midst of a skills shortage and the construction and building sector desperately needs more recruits.

"This pressure it set to continue so anyone considering a career in the trades can be confident they are making an excellent choice."