Ara’s iDraught exhibition showcases industry ready graduates

Ara Institute of Canterbury has celebrated its Diploma in Architectural Technology graduates at the end-of-year iDraught Exhibition.

Ākonga (students) shared their journeys and hopes for the future - and sent a clear message to employers: "we’re good to go".

Programme Leader Robert Hood reflected on the cohort’s achievements in the two years since they'd stepped into their studies.

“You’ve risen to the challenge, producing elegant design and uniquely individual solutions even when working to the same brief,” he told the friends, whānau and industry representatives at the exhibition opening.

“The quality work we see her tonight shows innovation, problem-solving, and resilience and you’ve proven you’re capable and ready to embark on the next chapter in your careers.”

Acknowledging the hard work of the cohort, Dean of Faculty for Applied Technology Peter Sauer thanked staff, sponsors and industry partners for their support.

Awards were presented to some standout students and projects: Academic Excellence (sponsored by Holmes) went to Zach Duurentijdt. Best documentation (sponsored by Warren and Mahoney) went to Klai Batao. The 2025 Drawing award (sponsored by Gordon Harris) went to Luca Harrison and the Overall Excellence award (sponsored by Architecture Design New Zealand ADNZ) went to Grace Jensen.

Ara alumnus Jovana Mrkailo, a design drafter (Holmes Australia and New Zealand) said her best advice to graduates was to knock on doors with portfolios in hand.

“Fronting up is the best way forward,” she said reflecting on her two and a half years in industry. “I’d also say stay open-minded as there are different pathways you can take - and be ready to keep learning. Being in industry has continued to be a massive learning curve.”

Luca Harrison, who came to Ara after discovering that a science degree at University of Canterbury was the wrong fit for him, said his cohort was geared up for exactly that.

“I came in with no knowledge of the building sector, but this course has been amazing. It’s challenged me and helped me find something I know I can be good at. Now I’m keen to start working,” he said.

He was staying optimistic as the hunt for work began and urged employers to invest in emerging talent.

“We’ve had the freedom to be creative here while studying but we’ve also shown we can tackle a diverse range of material and use a variety of tools. We’re ready to build on that foundation and grow in any direction an employer wants to take us.”

Zach Duurentijdt, a former builder who’d always harboured architecture aspirations agreed.

“With our skill set and fresh approach you’re not hiring someone burnt out. We’re fired up, keen, hungry and ready to go. We’re new talent and without any bad habits!” he said.

In a tight market, these graduates offer the full trifecta - quality skills, creativity and enthusiasm. Work-ready ready and eager to prove themselves – they’re set for every opportunity to take confident strides into industry.

Find out more about the NZ Diploma in Architectural Technology at Ara