Successful recruits join TLC’s trainee programme

16 March 2021

The Lines Company (TLC) is welcoming two new line mechanic trainees and one new apprentice electrician to their trainee programme.

TLC’s trainee programmes have been a proven success since it began in 2015, with 5 line and electrical trainees graduating late last year. There are currently 8 line mechanics and 1 apprentice electrician who are at various stages of completing their national qualification.

The trainee programme has seen two new line mechanics and one new apprentice electrician join the TLC team. The new line mechanic trainees are Kaiyah Te Ahuru from Taumarunui and Sam Tragmar from Ōtorohanga. The new apprentice electrician is Atholl Sneddon is from Te Kūiti.

TLC’s Manager Network Services Jared Murrell said the TLC team is committed to growing the King Country workforce and offering stable employment opportunities.

“The trainee programme is a great opportunity for candidates from the community to gain a trade and a highly sought-after qualification. The trainees get to work and learn with an experienced team where no two days are the same.”

“TLC are always on the lookout for new line mechanics that will bring some good practical skills and have the attitude and commitment we need.”

Jared said there is always a high calibre of local candidates, which bodes well for the future.

The trainee programme has been a focus of TLC’s for some time with between two to four trainees employed every year.

Applicants from all around the King Country are welcomed. Newly 21-year-old Kaiyah is born and bred in Taumarunui. For the past three years he has been working in the forestry industry. His high work ethic and competitive nature helped him win NZ Silver Culture planter of the year, out of 130 competitors.

Kaiyah has always noticed the TLC teams working around the countryside and took an interest.

“I thought the industry looked exciting and would provide a new challenge. I have always enjoyed working outside.”

In his spare time Kaiyah enjoys riding motorbikes and getting out in the bush to hunt.

The lines industry is quite a change for 29-year-old Sam, who is coming from being a directional driller. Sam is ready to for the change and challenge of a new industry.

“I have mates in the industry that say it is a good career, and I was looking for a change. I am most looking forward to the challenge of a new job and becoming qualified.”

Sam is a local from Ōtorohanga and when he isn’t at work, he enjoys diving, motorbike riding, rugby and all things sports.

New apprentice electrician 17-year-old Atholl Sneddon was born in England but has grown up in Te Kūiti. Atholl is eager to learn new skills and take full advantage of the trainee opportunity.

“This kind of opportunity doesn’t come around very often especially in Te Kūiti so it was one I knew I had to take. I’ve heard many great things about TLC especially about the people and am eager to start working with the TLC team.”

With Atholl’s eager attitude and love for keeping active he will be a great addition to TLC.

The three new trainees will be working towards a New Zealand Certificate, a Level 4 qualification. Kaiyah and Sam are working towards gaining a New Zealand Certificate in Electricity Supply Line Mechanic Distribution, a Level 4 qualification. Atholl is working towards becoming a fully registered Electrician with the EWRB.