The programme, born of a partnership between the Central Otago District Council, Local Government New Zealand and the Ministry of Social Development, focuses on getting 16 to 24-year-olds into sustainable employment.
The programme highlights the power of localism, while promoting community-led solutions for youth employment, education and training.
Central Otago District Mayor Tamah Alley said the programme had been well and truly embraced by rural mayors across the country.
"We see the benefit in retaining local talent, upskilling our young people and helping both employers and employees navigate the process,’’ Ms Alley said.
It was great to have such a programme in Central Otago, she said.
The transition from school to training, further education or employment was more challenging than it had previously been, Ms Alley said.
"Removing barriers, such as not having a driver licence or the right safety gear, through to helping with CV writing and how to prepare for an interview, means young people have a better shot when it comes to being work-ready," she said.
Ms Alley and MTFJ co-ordinator Craig Gilchrist saw the benefits of the programme first hand when they visited the Roxburgh hydro station to meet Logan Hay and his employer, MB Century, which specialises in hydro, geothermal and hydrogen maintenance and engineering solutions.
Through working with the MTFJ, Mr Hay was successfully placed as a trades assistant, part of the team replacing the 60-year-old turbines.
Five months in, he has thrived in the position, and said he hoped it would be part of a long-term pathway into a mechanical fitter’s apprenticeship.
Mr Hay said the programme had helped him keep motivated when things were tough.
"Craig was able to find opportunities when I thought there were none, put me through some training, helped me with CVs and applications, kept me positive and made me realise what I would be good at.’’
Mr Hay said he could not be in a better job, describing it as a perfect fit.
"Everyone at the dam is awesome, and I am learning new things every day," he said. — APL
