Investing In Apprenticeships
Securing a number of recent commercial projects has allowed us to invest in the employment of 2 new Boat Building Apprenticeships. This week we caught up with our new Apprentices Mark and Will to discuss what their first 4 weeks has been like.
Mark Hawkins
Why did you decide to undertake an apprenticeship as a Boat Builder?
I was really looking for something completely different to what I had done in the past, and something I was passionate about. Previously I had run my own business as a Sub-Contractor installing shower screens and prior to that I worked for Chep Pallets. I had always wanted to do be a boat builder so when the opportunity come up I finally took the plunge.
What attracted you to join Norman R. Wright & Sons?
When I noticed the job advertised I thought it was a great opportunity and the timing was perfect. On review of the business I was impressed with the fact that they had been in business for 110 years and during my first interview I was blown away with the variety of the role.
What have you enjoyed most about the role so far?
I’m always learning something new and there has not been a day the same for the first few weeks. I had the opportunity to work on Whistler with Dave Kircher and he shared an extensive amount of knowledge with me, I wasn’t aware there so many different types of timbers. Dave was happy to share his experience and knowledge and took the time to answer any questions and explain.
Are there specific projects you would like to see yourself working on as you develop through your apprenticeship and career?
I’m looking forward to learning a bit about aluminium fabrication, but equally excited to learn about fibreglass and composites too. I might even build my own boat one day!
What would you say to someone considering a career as Boat Builder?
Give it a go. Not a day will be the same and you will learn so much.
Will Turner
Why did you decide to undertake an apprenticeship as a Boat Builder?
I was looking for an apprenticeship at the time and I have always loved boating so it seemed the perfect time. Our family has a 32 Searay and we spend a lot of time on Moreton Bay so I’ve always loved being around boats and you never know I may be able to do some repairs on the Searay one day.
What attracted you to join Norman R. Wright & Sons?
When I applied for the job I looked through their website and noticed they had a history of building navy and military boats, along with a lot of sailing yachts, which really interests me.
What have you enjoyed most about the role so far?
There is always something different and new to do, I’ve loved working on Whistler and the QPS boat and gaining an understanding for how and why things are built the way they are. The guys on the floor are awesome too as they just know so much and are happy to share. Many of them have worked on a lot of the original builds that come through for maintenance so its incredible to listen to their experience and knowledge.
Are there specific projects you would like to see yourself working on as you develop through your apprenticeship and career?
I really look forward to getting some experience with fibreglass and composites, something that has always interested me.
What would you say to someone considering a career as Boat Builder?
If it’s something you want to do then go for it. If it’s something you love you will enjoy it for years.
