Oliver King, 18, started a heavy agricultural diesel mechanic apprenticeship at Agricentre South, in Cromwell, last month.
The Santana Minerals scholarship of $1000 scholarship had helped a lot as it meant he could buy much needed tools.
"It makes things easier, as you don’t have to rely on the workshop or other people’s tools," he said.
Santana Minerals chief executive, Damian Spring said the vocational scholarship Mr King was awarded recognised Cromwell College students who directly entered trades associated with the mining industry.
Mr King said the application process involved filling out a questionnaire about why he wanted the scholarship, and how he planned to use it, he said.
That was followed by a phone interview and a month later he found he was successful.
He became interested in heavy machines growing up surrounded by them on a vineyard, where his father was a viticulturist.
While at Cromwell College, he took part in work experience, also with Agricentre South.
"I really enjoyed the work experience and it lead to the apprenticeship," he said.
The apprenticeship was four years and so far he was enjoying the job and the people he worked with.
The ability to earn and to learn as an apprentice was something he liked
"What’s not to love?"
After his apprenticeship, Mr King hoped to stay in Central Otago and would like to move on to learning about planting equipment
"I’m really enjoying myself, really enjoying work," he said.
