From tools to mentorship

At just 15 years old,  Richard (Richie) Werahiko started his part-time job at Patchell Industries in Rotorua, where he swept floors and handled light-duty tasks. As the third generation in his family to work at the engineering firm, transitioning to full-time employment after high school felt like a natural step. Working hard to learn the trade in most areas on the workshop floor, in 2021, Richie completed a fabrication apprenticeship. During his 13 years with the business, Richie said he discovered the joy of building heavy transporting rigs for logging trucks and trailers, container movers and self-loading trailers.

In 2022, Richie embraced a new opportunity as a Competenz Training Advisor. In this role, he uses his experiences to inspire the next generation of apprentices in light and heavy fabrication, mechanical engineering, milking and dairy systems, and locksmithing.

Richie loves that he has the best of both worlds and can continue working in the engineering sector while also helping apprentices and employers from Rotorua to Opotiki achieve their training goals.

We asked Richie three questions about his work and career.

How did you transition from working as an apprentice one year, to becoming a training advisor the next?

In 2020 during COVID-19 lockdowns I had picked up work as a mentor and guard in Te Maioha youth prison, and even after the pandemic I continued casual work for one year covering weekend shifts. This was something I really enjoyed, and I began to notice that being a mentor could be the path for me. I enjoy connecting with youth and guiding our rangatahi to success, so they can be better for their community and themselves. This led me to pursue a pathway in mentoring, training and connecting with people. When I saw Competenz was recruiting for a training advisor role in early 2022 I knew this opportunity would not come around again anytime soon so I applied for the role, and here I am today.

What aspect of your job are you passionate about?

I am really trying to set a good example for our Māori and Pacifica learners that there is always a way to get to where they want to be in the future. I encourage them to take any opportunities that align with their plans for their future. I hope my own story inspires them. I am honest with all my learners about my journey as an apprentice; it gives my learners a bit of ease knowing that I have been through exactly what they are going through now.

What advice would you give a school leaver who is yet to decide their career or training pathway?

To keep an open mind, don’t rush. It’s okay not to know your career path now. Take the time to explore different options and interests before making a decision. Let time do its thing.

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“One of Richie’s capabilities is that he is really quick to learn new skills and ways of doing things and is very adaptive to the changing environment.”

Amit Kumra  - Competenz Regional Apprentice Manager, Waikato and Bay of Plenty

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