Tradie Breakfast event a great industry taster for ākonga at Ara

After a highly successful first event solely for carpentry students two years ago, the appetite for a campus wide “Tradie Breakfast” has been satisfied at Ara Institute of Canterbury.

Ākonga across all trades were treated to a tasty barbeque, industry deals, giveaways and challenges at the all-in breakfast for around 300 ākonga this week.

The event was the brainchild of tutor Tim Burton who said the idea had been embraced by all the trades streams at the Woolston campus.

Usually hosted in the workplace of trades suppliers, “Tradie Breakfasts” draw strong interest from those working in industry as a time to connect, network and see the latest in tools and products.

“We simply wanted to put on our own spin on an event that is well-known in industry,” Burton said.

“Our take was a heap of fun for students with games, challenges and raffles. It gave them a chance to grow their kit, access some good deals and pick up some great prizes. A free brekky was perfect for the last week of term too.”

Burton said there was always a lot of competition among the top brands suppling tools and equipment in trades. The Ara event gave suppliers a chance to show off their wares and create an even playing field for students to assess options.

He said it was great to see such wide industry support providing generous offers to help students take first steps in trades, including special pricing for tools and personal protective equipment.

Mitre 10, R&S Trade, Makita, Hikoki, De Walt, Milwaukee, Toolshed, Toolware, RESA, Schneider, Telfer and Klein were all there on the day.

Burton said the breakfast was another way Ara could help students prepare for how things roll in industry.

“For us the motivation is to help bridge the gap.”

“This is similar to things that they’ll encounter when they head out into the trades. We’re keen to give them a good experience and get them used to what happens in industry. This is part of it!”

Head of Trades Peter Sauer agreed.

“At Ara Trades we try to offer authentic industry-like events to enhance our ākonga experience. An industry-like tradie breakfast isn't just about food, it is collaboration with aspects of our industry such as retailers, wholesalers and equipment and tool suppliers.”

Sauer said the success of the event will see it firmly placed on the Trades campus annual calendar.