Goodman Contractors, Waikanae

Training and development are often seen as things which are limited to larger firms, but Goodman Contractors of Waikanae are testament to the fact that smaller companies can make training work for them too.

Company Director Lance Goodman explains “Training is a priority for our business.  Having qualified employees not only means we remain competitive in the marketplace, but is essential during the tendering process.  Health and safety is a huge factor too and it’s important to meet best practice in this area.  The benefits of putting our employees through qualifications – increased productivity and consistency – far outweigh the costs.”

Goodmans have one employee who is undertaking a Modern Apprenticeship in Civil Plant Operation.  Others are working towards National Certificates in Infrastructure Pipelaying, Bulk Earthmoving and Civil Construction Supervision. 

The company supports their employees in completing the qualifications by running group study sessions every fortnight during the winter months.  Goodmans also appointed Jeff Reid as a full time Operator/Operator Trainer to provide coaching on the different machines. 

Reid takes video footage, which enables operators to see themselves in action.  He explains, “They say a picture says a thousand words.  For an operator, watching yourself on video is the best way to see where your strengths and weaknesses are.  It’s also useful as evidence for unit standards and examples of best practice.  Our next project is to build a library of footage which will show the ideal standard for each piece of equipment.”

Reid is also an InfraTrain Registered Assessor.  With 14 years of experience he feels it is a chance for him to offer something back to the industry, and means that many unit standards can now be assessed in-house.

Lance Goodman (left) and Jeff Reid (right)

Ask for industry training - you'll be better off!

So, if you’re ready to start training your staff  contact InfraTrain.  Your nearest  regional manager will help you work out which training option best suits your companies skill needs, now and in the future.

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