📢 New CASE STUDY into Irrigation New Zealand A report prepared by Food and Fibre Centre of Vocational Excellence and Skills Group into the New Zealand irrigation sector found that it faces significant challenges in developing formal training pathways that align with industry needs. Despite its critical role in water management, food security, and environmental stewardship, the sector struggles to establish formal qualifications within the current vocational education and training (VET) system. IrrigationNZ has taken steps to address these gaps through industry-specific programmes and exploring alignment with international qualifications. However, progress has been hindered by the sector’s small size and ongoing VET reforms. There is a pressing need for tailored, NZQA-aligned qualifications, particularly in entry-level pathways, to attract a diverse workforce and ensure regulatory compliance. To support the sector’s growth, several recommendations have emerged, including the creation of a clear career and training framework, the establishment of a New Zealand-based apprenticeship programme, and the recognition of the Australian Certificate III in Irrigation Technology. Additionally, there is a strong call for increased promotion of irrigation careers, particularly targeting younger people, and closer collaboration with regulatory bodies to ensure training meets evolving compliance needs. By fostering stronger partnerships across industry, education, and government, the irrigation sector can develop a robust training landscape that attracts skilled professionals and positions irrigation as an exciting and sustainable career choice for the next generation. For more information and to read the report, visit https://lnkd.in/ggEiu2qk Or contact Portfolio Manager, Jackie Lynch. #positivedisruption #growth #innovation #foodandfibre
Victoria Bloomer
1mo
Thanks for posting this report. It made a for a very good read. I think it caught all my own thoughts but also highlighted some new insights. The inclusion of quotes from employers were really great to read and are reflective of conversations I've had just this week with three people from irrigation companies in both the North and South Islands.
Consultant Irrigation Engineer | International Capacity Development & Training | Project Officer
1moChallenges in irrigation training were, are and seem like they will continue to be obstacles to achieving sensible and sustainable irrigation in New Zealand (and everywhere, really). As much integration we'd like to have in all things irrigation, a clear career and training framework for IrrigationNZ needs to have some deep focus on Agricultural Irrigation as its core. A combined Urban & Ag Irrigation training program, as much as it sounds sensible, bewilders a focussed training program for either those doing Urban & landscaping Irrigation and those working on Agricultural Engineering. A challenge?, indeed it is !