When Patrick Carpenter left his former job in December, he contacted Work and Income in the hopes of getting a new one.
While there, he learned about T&G Global’s forklift training course and despite having no prior experience, signed up.
"I needed a job," Mr Carpenter said.
"And someone was giving me an opportunity and you don’t get that that often."
As well as learning the skills to operate a forklift at a high level, the course also taught him about wellbeing, personality types, problem solving, health and safety, and trust.
He had learnt a lot, especially about himself, Mr Carpenter said.
"I’ve learned a lot more about myself in the past four weeks than I have for a long time.
"I had no forklift experience before this and now... I can drive and operate a forklift."
"I’m so grateful to have the opportunity."
T&G Global site manager Barrie Aberhart said Mr Carpenter was a "shining star" and had been offered a job as a forklift operator after the completion of the course.
Mr Carpenter had met all the criteria required, including having the right attitude, working well as part of a team and turning up to work on time each day.
The course followed the company’s value of kaitiakitanga — guardianship, care and protection, Mr Aberhart said.
"Part of our values here is we have to give back to the land and give back to the people."
