Putting skills learned during their apprenticeship training is a very powerful way to turn theory into real-world practice.
Two Hawke’s Bay electrical apprentices, Kees (in his second year of training) and Jeremy (in his third year) from Anvil Construction are doing just that. Every fortnight, they volunteer their time to test and tag electrical appliances donated to Re-Source, a local waste-reduction organisation that rehomes household items to families in need.
Re-Source and Anvil Construction were connected via EarnLearn Account Manager Julia Carmichael, a long-time supporter of Re-Source who is also supporting Kees and Jeremy through their NZ Certificate in Electrical Trade at Anvil Construction.
Re-Source Founder and General Manager Nadine Rees Gaunt says Julia could see an opportunity that would be a win-win for everyone. “It provides hands-on experience for the apprentices, while helping support our community and sustainability goals.”
With Re-Source rehoming 250 electrical items in 2025 and sending about 165kg to scrap metal recycling, keeping on top of the safety checks can be difficult, Nadine says.
“Previously, all our testing was carried out by a retired electrician who volunteered his time. We would have quite a mountain waiting for him, because it’s essential that every electrical item is tested before rehoming, to ensure it’s safe for use.
“This new arrangement with Anvil Construction apprentice’s working to test and tag items, under supervision, helps balance the workload and ensures we don’t overwhelm our wonderful volunteers.”
The arrangement is working so well with Anvil, Re-Source is keen to see it continue and perhaps expand to include other apprentices. “It’s proving to be an ideal arrangement for everyone. It’s meaningful for the apprentices and hugely helpful for us.”
For Anvil Construction Owners Karla Kilmister and Damian Pitman, having their apprentices volunteer gives them additional practical experience while supporting their local community.
With plenty of previous experience testing and tagging equipment for Hawke’s Bay hospital, Damian says he knows just how important the work is.
“Testing and tagging really means performing electrical safety checks to make sure the items are safe to handle and nobody is going to get electrocuted using them,” he says. “The work with Re-Source gives Rees and Jeremy a solid understanding of plug-in electrical appliances and how they work. They’re able to identify faults, work out whether a part is faulty, and build practical skills, all while contributing to their electrical training.”
EarnLearn Account Manager Julia Carmichael says the opportunity for apprentices to volunteer with Re-Source is a valuable extension of the theory and on-job training that make up an EarnLearn electrical apprenticeship.
“My own connection with Re-Source has allowed me to link apprentices with a volunteer opportunity that genuinely supports both their learning and the wider community.
“Through activities like testing and tagging donated appliances, they’re gaining practical, real-world experience they can use as evidence toward their workbooks and on-job requirements, while also making a meaningful contribution to families in need.”
Find out about EarnLearn Electrical Apprenticeships
