Tauranga building apprentice Mike Watson left nothing to chance when he won the Bay of Plenty & Central Plateau 2023 Registered Master Builders Apprentice of the Year regional title this month.

Now the 34-year-old is preparing for November’s national contest, where he and seven fellow regional winners will vie for the New Zealand title.

For the regional competition, Mike’s written entry detailed a building project he’s working on, and then he did a practical challenge. After that, the top 10 had an on-site project visit and judges’ interview.

Mike Watson, with his Bay of Plenty & Central Plateau 2023 Registered Master Builders Apprentice of the Year regional title. Photo: supplied.

The judges say Mike is a great all-round apprentice, with a superb attitude towards learning.

“With a strong ability to communicate, Mike had an excellent submission that showed a very solid understanding of his project. His practical project was very well-built, and we were impressed with his high level of workmanship.”

Challenge

Mike, who is employed by JBH Building, started building in 2020, and began his apprenticeship 2021.

Why building?

“My father and I renovated a house and I enjoyed the visual progress you get – being able to step back and be proud of what you’ve done.

“It’s awesome!”

Mike Watson on the tools at a JBH Building site. Photo: Bob Tulloch.

Set to finish his apprenticeship soon, Mike entered the contest to challenge himself and to network.

“I’m relatively new to the industry, so making connections is important.”

Mike’s been working on JBH Building’s high end residential builds for 18 months.

Owners Justin and Sally Horler say his confidence has grown and his level of detail along with his workmanship is an asset to JBH Building.

“Mike has a great personality and is a team player,” says Justin.

High end builds

“JBH Building is a residential building company that specialises in high end new builds and renovations. At JBH Building, our core values are honesty, transparency, respect and trust," says Justin.

"We work closely with our clients, supporting them every step of the way to ensure a seamless and enjoyable building experience. Clients value our unique hands-on approach, and our meticulous attention to detail.”

Mike is heavily involved in turning JBH’s clients’ dreams into reality, currently learning to be foreman.

He loves working for JBH Building.

“It’s awesome – Justin and Sally have created an environment where it’s easy to learn, and you’re constantly learning.”

Now, he’s hunting that national apprentice title!

Mike Watson on the tools at a JBH Building site. Photo: Bob Tulloch.