CNIWC Generation Programme review – August 2023
August 2023
As CEO of the Central North Island Wood Council I am pleased to present this review of the Generation Programme (the Programme); funded by the Forest Growers Levy Trust. This entry-level training programme for forestry is strategically important for our region. People with a passion for our industry, who we can support as their careers develop, are critical to our success.
We have run five Generation Programmes to date, with 38 successful graduates. There is strong support to continue, but with improvements that respond to the suggestions made in this review. The Industry Transformation Plan describes the future of forestry as bright and says it is important now, more than ever, that we maximise opportunities including those that deliver better outcomes for workers, families and communities. The priorities for our funders in central and local government are changing. Putting the Programme onto a stable footing for funding is critical if we are to continue to offer local training. Options to achieve this are explored in this review but we have not yet identified a source of long-term funding.
This report provides many insights into the Programme. It sets out industry expectations along with options to consider for the future of the Programme. Whilst we know the Programme has transformed the lives of many of the individuals who have completed the course, it also has a proven positive impact for whānau and plays an important part in maintaining the community backing for the forestry industry. The lessons identified point to where we can do better.
The Generation Programme remains strategically important to our industry regionally. At this time when the Review of Vocational Education is underway, we need to consider whether this is also a nationally strategic Programme and how it can be supported on a long-term basis.
Many thanks to everyone who engaged in the consultation interviews, your feedback has helped create this report and will play an important part in shaping the future of the Generation Programme.
‘He aha to mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata!’
Damita Mita
CEO CNI Wood Council