Strong technical knowledge, organisation and willingness to learn have earned Sam Hoskins the title of Southern 2024 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year.

Sam, who works for Dunlop Builders, took first place in the competition, which recognises excellence among carpentry apprentices and raises awareness of career opportunities in the building and construction industry.

Being assessed included a written presentation, a two-hour practical challenge, an interview with four judges and, lastly, a site visit to Sam’s current project.

Judges said Sam’s performance in the competition was “outstanding”.

“Working with a solid team, Sam is on the path to becoming a well-rounded and skilled carpenter,” they said.

It was Sam’s second time entering the competition: last year he came second and he said he had decided to enter to challenge himself despite finding it “really nerve wracking”.

“I was happy to get second last year but the one thing I let myself down on was in the practical challenge as I was really nervous and made some silly mistakes,” he told the Wānaka App.

“My main motivation was to go back to the practical challenge and improve on that element,” he said. “I was really happy as I felt like I did that.”

Sam will head to Auckland in November to compete against the other top apprentices from each region, which will include a 45-minute interview with the national judging panel and a six-hour practical skills test. 

Competing in the regional competition over the past two years has built Sam’s confidence and he is looking forward to competing at a national level.

“It’s nice to go in with confidence,” he said. “I’m feeling pretty good about it.”

He said he has been impressed by the time, quality and care that the organisers put into the competition.

Sam is also grateful to his employers, Dunlop Builders, who have been “incredible”.

“They’re such a good company and really supportive,” he said.

Sam will compete for the national Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year title on November 7-8.

PHOTO: Supplied