The WIDE Trust has launched an opportunity for persons actively pursuing a career in either the forestry or wood industries in New Zealand to apply for a grant, of up to NZ$30,000, to undertake an international study tour of no less than two-weeks’ duration to explore innovations, best practice processes and procedures and leading-edge technology in these industries globally. Sources: Timberbiz, Harvesttech, WIDE Trust
Applications for the study tour grants are now being accepted via the WIDE Trust website. Applications close at the end of June 2023. Successful applicants will be required to complete their study tour within 15-months of having been awarded a grant.
The WIDE Trust awarded grants totaling NZ$312,000 at the Trust’s first meeting for 2023. The Trust considers applications for funding on a quarterly basis. The latest grant recipients include several students from the University of Canterbury’s School of Forestry some of whom are receiving a WIDE Trust grant for the third year in succession.
The Trust received 69 applications for grants this year from both under-graduate and post-graduate students.
The Mike Hurring Forestry Training School in Balclutha has also been awarded a grant from the WIDE Trust for its Apprentice Training School. With the shortage of trained personal in the forestry industry, both currently and forecasted, the apprenticeship program will help provide much needed skilled operators for the industry.
The apprenticeship program involves trainees undertaking training and assessment with qualified industry trainers using simulator technology. There is also the opportunity for training using a log loader and log truck, forwarder, wheeled harvester, bulldozer and skidder. Visits to various ports and sawmills are included in the training program which is run over four, one-week block courses every 2-3 months.
A wide range of unit standards and general skills to help students towards their formal apprenticeship in forestry are included.
All students are signed into a forestry apprenticeship with Competenz, which will result in four NZQA Certificates – two at level 3 and two at level 4. Regular visits from the Competenz account manager will ensure all apprentices are kept on track and working towards their qualifications.
Businesses, students and others involved in studies and work to enhance the forestry and wood industry sectors in New Zealand are invited to apply to the WIDE Trust for a grant to support their efforts. For more information visit: www.widetrust.org.nz
