Case Study: Empowering the Next Generation of Apprentices

The Cook Brothers Apprentice Academy supports apprentices throughout their apprenticeship, empowering them to be the best apprentices and then the best carpenters that they can be.

With our excellent team culture, we aim to lift our apprentices to as high a level as possible with the skills and tools needed for their success in the industry. Matt Thompson, our National Apprentice Coach, provides pastoral care to our nationwide team of apprentices.

Matt recently debuted a case study conducted by ConCOVE Tūhura (Construction & Infrastructure Centre of Vocational Excellence) at the 2024 Thriving People, Thriving Industry Summit hosted by Waihanga Ara Rau (Construction and Infrastructure Workforce Development Council) in Wellington on Tuesday 8 October.

It was a great opportunity to evaluate the success of the programme and involved interviews with our apprentices and the wider Cook Brothers team. At Cook Brothers Construction, our goal is to transform the construction industry and cement ourselves as a national leader. This case study was a great opportunity for us to showcase our Apprentice Academy to the wider industry.

They looked into the Academy’s model and provided insights on the impact it has had on Apprentices - past, current, and future, and the wider Cook Brothers’ team. As part of this process, they talked with current apprentices and Cook Brothers’ staff, including carpenters, leading hands, site managers, and senior executives. These interviews looked to capture their thoughts and insights into the apprenticeship programme, what makes it unique, how it supports apprentices, potential improvements, and the overall value it adds to Cook Brothers Construction as a business. 

The case study also highlights the programme’s key benefits and challenges and provides recommendations for the Construction industry and vocational education system to design and improve apprenticeship models.

ConCOVE Tūhura Case Study: Cook Brothers Construction Apprentice Academy This case study showcases the Cook Brothers Construction Apprentice Academy. Download the full case study (PDF)