Smooth finish to apprenticeship

Joel Amrein is a smooth operator when it comes to plastering. Photo: Dan Hutchinson

A 20-year-old Taupō plasterer has taken out the Apprentice of the Year title at the Resene Construction Systems – Rockcote & Plaster Systems National Gala Awards in Christchurch last month.

Joel Amrein works for his parent’s business, Taupō Texture Coatings, and has now completed his apprenticeship through BCITO.

It was a close call in the recent contest. His mother Paula Amrein says Joel edged out the runner-up by just half a point.

Joel left school after achieving NCEA Level 1 and started in the trade at 16, going straight into the family business. He's now been in the industry for four years.

The assessment process involved a review by his BCITO qualification adviser, a job site visit from Christchurch-based assessor Malcolm Oates, and a hands-on practical test that required Joel to sculpt a flower from plaster.

"First and last, I reckon," Joel jokes of the flower-making exercise.

He says the variety of the work is part of what keeps him engaged.

"New thing every day, pretty much."

Joel's father Steve Amrein is also a well-respected figure in the plastering trade.

Paula says they both left school young to pursue trades.

"School wasn't their thing and they went into the trades, and they love it.”

Joel acknowledges the work is physically demanding but he'd recommend the trade to others without hesitation.

He's also taken a step into home ownership, purchasing one of the Taupō District Council’s new affordable home and section packages in Taupō's Orokō Rise development, going halves with a friend on a two-bedroom duplex.

The home is plaster clad so he will be able to add value to it straight away through his own work.