Cabinetry firm has eye on future

Lee Brothers Cabinets and Joinery owner Paul Ingram with apprentice Ashley Hollamby. Photo / Ben Fraser

It is a company that's been around for almost a century, but Lee Brothers Cabinets and Joinery still has a strong focus on the future.

That focus is partly behind the decision of the company to partner with Waiariki Institute of Technology Charity House project,

The same focus is also being seen with the firm's commitment to taking on new apprentices, including Ashley Hollamby who recently picked up an award in the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Joinery Apprentice Awards.

Mr Hollamby was awarded top apprentice from Module C (second year apprentice) and was recognised last year as well winning the top apprentice award for Modules A and B.

Lee Brothers' owner Paul Ingram said they saw partnering on the charity house project as a good opportunity.

Carpentry students will work in the factory to build the kitchen for the house, while Mr Ingram said he was keen to see the ideas of the interior design students.

"One of the biggest benefits is an awareness of what is available here in the joinery industry and the career prospects for this job."

Mr Ingram said the firm had been around since 1926 and had "a lot of heritage".

He hoped the project would showcase the industry to students and encourage them to consider it.

"Everything is bespoke, custom made. It's anything from fitting out a library to making brochure stands as well as your bathrooms, vanities, kitchens, windows and doors." Mr Ingram said the benefits of the industry could be seen through apprentices like Mr Hollamby, who he described as having a "natural talent".

"He really enjoys what he does. He's a talented young man who is really good with the new technology."

Mr Hollamby said he'd encourage more people to take up apprenticeships.

"I like working with my hands and I'm getting paid to learn -- it's not costing me anything."

He said the apprenticeship had been less of a juggle than he expected.

"I thought it would be a bit more work and effort but it's just happening."

Another Rotorua apprentice was also recognised in the Waikato/Bay of Plenty awards.

Phillip Thom from Paul Sparke Cabinets was awarded the top apprentice for Module D.