It’s all cisterns gone as hundreds of artisans sharpen their tools and put on their play faces as the Plumbing World Young Plumber of the Year (YPOTY) competition kicks off today.
Given the industry’s chronic shortage of skilled workers – estimated at around 3,500* – Rob Kidd, CEO of Plumbing World New Zealand, says the competition is a way of showcasing plumbing as a career and attracting new people to the profession.
“More than 8,000 people work as plumbers, gas fitters and drainers in New Zealand, but this is not enough to meet demand. The current workforce is unable to keep up with the normal workload, let alone the extensive repair work that has resulted from recent natural disasters. That is the shortage, Immigration New Zealand lists plumbing on its infrastructure qualifications shortage list.”
Now in its fifth year, contestants from Northland to Southland will compete for the prestigious title of Young Plumber of the Year in a series of regional events culminating in the national finals in November.
“There has never been a better opportunity for Kiwis to build a fantastic career in retail,” says Rob. “As the plumbing profession is aging, it is crucial that our young plumbers have the support they need and for those willing to work and complete their qualifications, the path to entrepreneurship is a very real possibility. We need to fill the pipeline with high caliber artisans who can contribute to the country’s economy and fill the skills shortage in our industry.”
2021 competition winner Veronika Kreitner says that YPOTY is a fantastic showcase of the industry and that winning the title has had a significant impact on her career.
“The recognition has boosted my profile and thus confidence in my abilities. I now feel that the sky is the limit and I owe my success to my boss Craig at Guy Plumbing & Gas in Wanaka, who taught me the importance of organization and a meticulous work ethic,” says Veronika.
“There are many paths to success in the plumbing trade and the YPOTY competition can accelerate your development on your chosen path to a world-class career. So don’t hesitate to try it!”
YPOTY will be held in three phases, beginning on July 4th with rapid-fire events at 31 Plumbing World stores, followed by industry winners going head-to-head in eight regional finals throughout September and October. While the industry events are a simple skill test and theory test, the regional competitions are held abroad and consist of more demanding practical components and a more difficult theory test. Each event is evaluated by a jury of experts from the industry.
The winners from each of the eight regions and two wildcard entries will then compete in the grand finale in Hamilton in November. A prize pool valued at over $80,000 will be offered throughout the competition and will include Milwaukee tools and toolware, cash prizes, clothing, equipment and a trip for two to Port Douglas for the national winner of the Plumbing World Overseas Trips- program.
The YPOTY competition recognizes excellence in the plumbing industry and nurtures talent to ensure better plumbing in New Zealand now and in the future. Craftsmen under the age of 31 who work as plumbers or are doing an apprenticeship are eligible to participate. Participation is free – enter via the Young Plumbers Club website. The prize pool, contest details and entry form will be available on the website from April 3rd.
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https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU2304/S00017/national-competition-launches-to-find-new-zealands-brightest-plumbing-talent-and-attract-more-to-the-trade.htm
