Barred Up Scaffolding, a family-owned business founded in 2020, is making significant strides in enhancing workforce training and safety standards in Whanganui.

Tasked with supporting local people to upskill and obtain employment in local jobs, the Port Employment Precinct (PEP) is seeing success, thanks to their Fast Track programme.The PEP was established when the Whanganui District Employment Training Trust (WDETT) secured a $1.5 million grant from the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) in 2020, as administered by Kānoa – Regional Economic and Development and Investment Unit, to contribute to resolving skill and labour gaps in the region. The funding was provided through Te Ara Mahi, a programme which aims to address long-term barriers to employment and provide pathways to education and skills training.

Simon Peeti and Mau Pakai completed the Fast Track pilot Programme earlier this year. They share their experiences, highlighting the impact it has had on them, and the opportunities it has provided for their career pathways.

A group of motivated young rangatahi recently completed the first half of the Port Employment Precinct’s (PEP) Pre-Trade Programme, visiting Q-West Boat Builders and observing their team in action first-hand.

“It’s about youth being work-ready, and industry being youth-ready.” - Ron Armstrong

Te Pūwaha, Whanganui’s port revitalisation project, was awarded the top prize in the Best Practice Collaboration category at the Economic Development NZ Awards.