Connection
Produced by Wellington Institute of Technology
December 2014
WelTec is pleased to bring you the December issue of our Connection magazine, linking industry and our
stakeholders with the latest WelTec news and achievements.
In this issue
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Strategic partnership moves forward
New campus for Creative Technologies and arts
Wellington institutions look to enhance the region’s
digital economy
WelTec introduces new programmes
Regional School of Construction and School of
Engineering build update
Looking for solutions to your business needs?
Convention Centre welcome addition to Wellington
WelTec partners in Hutt City’s Silver Lining project
The benefits of addressing low literacy and numeracy in
the workplace
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Innovative technology designed and produced by WelTec student
Young engineer designs sustainable envornmental solution
Wellington Institute of Technology recognised as leading
international Education provider by JJL China
Proud Pasifika community celebrate student success
Success for Māori trades training students
Wellington viewpoint wins student top prize
World of opportunities for New Zealand graduates
WelTec hosts the Community Colleges Department
Junior Corneotherapist of the year
Bachelor of Hospitality Management students end of year projects
Professor Goran Roos
Environmental problem one step closer to being solved
Strategic partnership moves forward
The Choice Protocol is a flagship initiative in New Zealand bringing together WelTec and
Whitireia to provide greater access for students across the Wellington region to tertiary
education. Roger Sowry (Council Chair of WelTec and Whitireia) talks below about the
bold new move by the Council to appoint one Chief Executive for both WelTec and
Whitireia which aims to achieve greater synergies across both highly regarded Wellington
institutions.
“The Council has been considering the next stage of the strategic partnership of these two
highly successful and well-regarded Wellington region institutions. WelTec and Whitireia
have partnered formally since the beginning of 2012 and over this period they have made
significant gains working together for the benefit of students.
Achievements have included:
>A single Council driving the strategic direction of both institutions and taking a Wellington Region-wide approach to education provision;
>A single Academic Board and aligned Quality Management System which will ultimately see seamless education delivery and transferability for students between the two institutions;
>The teaching of programmes at each other’s campuses;
>Significant decisions on the creation of joint centres in the creative technologies and arts, and in health and wellbeing;
>The creation of a shared services business unit which has driven efficiencies and savings in procurement and IT services and which will expand over time into other back office functions;
>A joint international marketing strategy for Wellington, which has been extended to other tertiary and secondary providers.
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On reviewing these achievements and considering the type of leadership structure needed for the next stage of development and growth,
a decision was made to recruit a single Chief Executive to lead both institutions. In making this decision, the Council has reaffirmed its
commitment to having two strong and independent tertiary education institutions. Evidence of the achievements and success of the
Partnership supports this decision, achieved without compromising major developments undertaken separately by both institutions and
in an increasingly challenging operating environment. What has been achieved would not have happened without the formal strategic
partnership and the commitment of Council and senior managers, particularly the leadership of the two Chief Executives, who have each
taken their institution to new heights of achievement and performance.
To further strengthen the Partnership and deliver greater gains in this next phase, it is considered that a move to a single leadership model
is appropriate, while retaining the distinctive culture, style, identity and integrity of each institution.” Dr Linda Sissons CNZM will continue as
WelTec’s Chief Executive until her contract expires in June 2015.
WelTec is in a strong position with many thousands of students choosing to study here. Students achieve excellent course and qualification
completion results with WelTec consistently performing in the top rankings for ITPs. The institution has a strong relationship with business
and we acknowledge the contribution of organisations who have supported WelTec and our students in 2014.
The Council will provide regular updates to industry and our wider stakeholders on Choice Protocol developments in 2015 as we look
forward to another year of outstanding student achievement.
New campus for Creative Technologies and the arts moves one step closer
WelTec and Whitireia are making good progress on plans for a new Wellington campus to house Creative Technologies and Performing Arts
programmes. The project is a collaboration between WelTec, Whitireia and developer Willis Bond. As previously reported the new campus
will be sited on the corner of Cuba St and Dixon St, formerly the DEKA building. Willis Bond’s team include Athfields, Dunning Thornton and
Cor Associates. An application for Resource Consent has now been lodged with Wellington City Council and subject to approval, demolition
of the former DEKA building will commence mid-2015.
WelTec and Whitieria’s design team led by Architect Michael Melville is busy with the interior design of the six storey building which will
feature a 250 seat performance theatre, a cinema and public practice space for students to showcase their work. Elsewhere in the campus
there will be film and photography studios, teaching salons for Hair beauty and Make-Up Artistry, digital sound studios and a dance studio.
Industry wanting to have input into the design should email Michael Melville at [email protected]
Wellington institutions look to enhance the region’s digital economy
Three Wellington tertiary providers are working
with industry to develop a joint Information and
Communications Technology (ICT) Graduate
School that addresses the specific needs of
the region. Earlier this year the Government
announced it was investing $28.6 million over
four years in ICT graduate schools in Auckland,
Wellington and Christchurch. Victoria University
of Wellington, WelTec and Whitireia have joined
forces with a number of Wellington businesses to
develop a bid to establish the school.
“This is an excellent opportunity for Wellington
based tertiary institutions to establish a school
that will maximise the economic opportunities for our city and New Zealand,” says Professor Mike Wilson, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Science,
Architecture and Design and Engineering at Victoria University.
“The Wellington region has the highest concentration of web and digital-based companies per capita in New Zealand and we want to ensure
there are enough graduates with the skills and research capacity to help those companies thrive. Collectively we see great value in being
able to leverage our existing networks, resources and education capabilities in the region to develop a school that will lead to a larger pool of
ICT talent and collaborative research partnerships.”
Linda Sissons says the three tertiary institutions already have extensive collaborative relationships with each other, and the businesses and
stakeholders that are necessary to make the School a success, “We have been talking to a number of companies who are partnering with us
to get a clear view of what the School needs to offer. We will be focused not only on skill development and innovative research initiatives, but
also on blurring the traditional teaching boundaries by offering more educational delivery in real settings. This is an exciting direction for all
of us.”
WelTec, VUW and Whitireia were invited last week to submit a full proposal to establish an ICT Graduate School, the only proposal to go
forward for Wellington. See media release here: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/ict-graduate-schools-move-one-step-closer
WelTec introduces new programmes
Learn from world leading water treatment researcher
Dr Induka Werellagama.
WelTec is very pleased to announce a range of new programmes for those
wanting to pursue higher level study. These new options provide greater choice
for students.
• Graduate Diplomas in Engineering (Mechatronics) and (Water and Waste)
• Post Graduate and Masters programmes in
- Applied Business
- Information Technology
- Professional Practice (Health Studies)
•A Hospitality Management major in Bachelor of Applied Management
•An Accounting major in Bachelor of Applied Management with external accreditation by NZICA and CPA
• Graduate Diploma in Applied Management with strand in Event Management
We are also researching demand for a Construction Management degree and
welcome industry feedback on this.
Please contact Mick Jays on [email protected]
Short Training Schemes will also be added to the WelTec Portfolio, delivering
skills for industry and assisting at risk young people to get into a career.
Regional School of Construction and School of Engineering build update
There has been much visible progress recently at the Regional School of Construction as you’ll see when you’re driving along SH2. Around
220 students and staff will be accommodated at this campus which brings most of the School of Construction’s programmes onto one site.
The cost of the build is around $5m representing a significant investment into the Hutt Valley. Students will be on site from early March 2015.
The School of Engineering is undergoing a major redevelopment as you will see when driving down Kensington Avenue or Cuba Street,
Petone. The build brings WelTec’s currently dispersed engineering sites into one physical centre, providing students and also industry
with access to a comprehensive range of engineering and automotive programmes. The revamp will deliver enhanced learning spaces for
project-based learning and strengthen WelTec’s research and R&D ability, building on its reputation for innovative thinking and delivery.
Looking for solutions to your business needs?
For their Business/Management Diploma project, students are required to find and recommend solutions to managerial problems through
the application of management concepts and tools.
Managerial problems can be in the areas of planning, leading, organising, controlling or other management related areas of business.
This is an opportunity for companies in the Greater Wellington Region to access smart minds, gain insights, creative ideas or solutions to
improve their business.
How it works
The students will work in groups of 3-5 students and will produce recommendations for you at the end of the project. They will also be
expected to report back to you regularly on progress and guidance on the direction they are taking.
They will be working to achieve their qualifications in one of the
following programmes:
> Bachelor of Applied Management
> NZIM Diploma in Management
> NZ Diploma in Business
> Diploma in Marketing
Timelines
> Expression of Interest to WelTec by 02 March 2015
> Pitch concept to students March 2015 (date TBA)
> Project Proposal due April 2015 (date TBA)
> Oral Presentation: May 2015 (date TBA)
> Project Report due June 2015 (date TBA)
Successful projects
Successful projects have been undertaken for organisations such as:
> Bostik NZ Ltd, one of the world’s leading providers of adhesive and sealant solutions, which will be implementing a new change
management process based on solutions recommended by the project team.
> Skylight, a not-for-profit charitable trust offering services to support those facing tough times, which has taken into consideration the
recommended performance management system developed from the results of primary and secondary research on best practice.
> The Jackson Street Programme, an incorporated society that aims to promote, preserve, and enhance Jackson Street as a successful
heritage/ retail/ commercial area, which was highly appreciative of and will be implementing the solutions recommended for improving
engagement with the migrant business owners on Jackson St.
> Able Pet Care, a social enterprise that employs people with an intellectual disability to provide pet feeding and dog walking services,
which is looking to adopt the recommended organisational structure to improve staff motivation.
Interested and want to know more?
Contact: Leah Seno, Management Lecturer
School of Business and Information Technology
[email protected], Phone: 920 2682
Convention centre welcome addition to Wellington
A new Convention Centre and hotel run by the Hilton chain proposed for Wellington is a welcome addition to Wellington says Linda Sissons
Chief Executive, Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec).
“The Hilton has relationships with local tertiary education providers in its locations worldwide and is a great strategic business fit with what
we do. Our programmes are an excellent match for the Hilton’s staffing and ongoing training requirements. Jobs for our graduates and
economic growth to support this are key to our success and this is what a new Convention Centre for the Capital City run by Hilton Hotels
will add to Wellington’s hospitality and tourism sector,” says Linda Sissons.
WelTec has the largest hospitality tertiary training school in New Zealand co-located on a campus with Le Cordon Bleu New Zealand within
a short walk of the proposed Convention Centre. Le Cordon Bleu New Zealand opened in late 2012 and chose to physically site itself in the
same building as the Wellington Institute of Technology’s School of Hospitality to provide a significant campus for students and to create a
centre of excellence for culinary education in the heart of the city.
“We have invested ($13M) into the Wellington CBD to establish our campus - the New Zealand centre for culinary and hospitality excellence.
We (WelTec and Le Cordon Bleu NZ) view the relationship with the Hilton as very complimentary and we see many benefits for our students
through being given the opportunity for work experience and careers with the Hilton Hotel network.
“WelTec prepares students for all facets of the hospitality and tourism industry. The Hilton
employs the staff that we train from sales and marketing, to finance and accounting, HR to all
the front of house, catering and hotel management staff required to run a busy and successful
hospitality and tourism operation. We understand from our conversations with the Hilton that
they are very committed to training and upskilling their workforce with a promotion and growth
focus to their workforce development.
“The proposal has the hallmarks of success from our perspective of being New Zealand’s
premier hospitality training provider,” says Linda Sissons.
WelTec provides practical hands-on training in all areas of the hospitality industry - from barista
training, cookery, food and beverage courses, to hotel reception, hotel management, tourism
and event management.
“Our Graduate Diploma in Event Management students will potentially have even more
opportunities to test their skills, undertake project work and seek employment with the Hilton and the Convention Centre. As a training
provider we support new hospitality and tourism ventures in Wellington.
“WelTec and Le Cordon Bleu NZ have a key focus on recruiting international students to study in Wellington. The Hilton will be a major
draw card for these students. We would look to develop a Memorandum of Understanding with the Hilton which could be jointly used as a
marketing tool to attract international students,” says Linda Sissons.
WelTec partners in Hutt City’s Silver Lining project
Project Silver Lining is a partnership between WelTec and Hutt City Council to help local businesses address difficult waste streams.
Together we aim to reduce waste to landfill which benefits our environment and improves your resource efficiency. We can help reduce
waste and in some cases eliminate it.
Almost a third of Hutt City’s waste comes from local businesses and commercial enterprises. Information from organisations we’ve worked
with, tells us that most have simple waste minimisation solutions (such as recycling cardboard and plastic) but almost all struggle to find
solutions for difficult waste.
Once businesses sign up for this project we’ll begin with a free waste audit and send you a report with recommendations.
Silver Lining has already helped organisations reduce their waste to landfill by reuse and recycling. Some solutions we’ve provided include:
• Advice on product design specifications and processes.
• Helping find alternative use for a waste stream.
• Linking with others who can reuse or recycle what you send to landfill.
For more information contact Bob Robinson on (04) 920 2807 or email [email protected]
The benefits of addressing low literacy and numeracy in the workplace
Research tells us, there are a million Kiwi adults without the reading,
writing, maths and communication skills they need at work.
Unfortunately, most employers are unaware of how low levels
of workplace literacy affect their business. Raising employees’
workplace literacy skills has many benefits including:
• Greater efficiency, increased productivity and higher quality of work
• Reduction in errors and unnecessary wastage
• Improved Health and Safety compliance
(less accidents and injuries)
• Staff retention and attendance
• Higher standards of communication and customer service
• More willingness to contribute and listen to ideas
• More interest in training and upskilling
• Improved morale
WelTec has a number of specialised tutors with experience in improving literacy and numeracy in the workplace.
The programmes we offer are free and are contextualised to your workplace. Places are limited, so start planning for 2015 now.
For more information please contact Elaine James on 04 830 0732 or email [email protected]
Innovative technology designed and produced in the Hutt Valley by
WelTec student
Fraser Engineering in Lower Hutt is world famous for producing sophisticated yet rugged fire engines.
A final year WelTec engineering student, George Francis, has designed and produced a very smart device for Frasers that allows firefighters
to direct water cannon from the safety of their cab.
George who completed two years at Massey University decided he wanted to get industry experience before going on with his engineering
studies, has worked at Frasers for 7 years. “I wanted to learn hands on engineering and started on the workshop floor. I then decided that
the Bachelor of Engineering Technology better reflected the academic pathway I wanted to pursue as I needed to advance my technical and
electrical engineering skills.”
Over the past year George designed a prototype electronic control unit for a remote control firefighting nozzle known as a Monitor – a
device which is mounted to the front bumper of a firefighting vehicle. “My project progressed well and ahead of schedule so that in early
October the production prototype designed to be a short run version of the final production model was sold to an Australian customer and
by the end of this project will be in service ready for the busy bushfire season,” says George.
Martin Simpson, Fraser’s GM says, “Our future depends on our ability to innovate and through smart engineering solutions we can expand
our business. We are focused on efficient manufacturing processes to support new ideas into production. As an industry we need smart,
practical graduates like George who come along and assist with projects that really make a difference to our business.”
“This Monitor, which incorporates the technology designed and developed as a prototype by George, is relevant to all firefighting situations.
Our aim is that there will be one on all fire trucks, especially in Australia where there are huge safety benefits from being able to fight fires
from inside a vehicle’s cab. This device drives a fire engine’s water cannon through the use of a joystick. We have produced this unit which is
not only cost effective but exemplifies the type of smart engineering technology Frasers is all about. There are also huge safety benefits for
the fire service that this type of unit provides. When you look at the cost of ensuring a fire fighter’s safety vs purchasing this unit it’s a very
sound safety and business decision,” says Martin Simpson.
Frans Weehuizen (George’s electrical engineering tutor at WelTec) says, “This project was produced to a very high standard and within a
very short timeframe so much so that it is now in production which really is quite incredible. George worked very hard and managed to test
his design through two or three iterations to get the final product which is staggering given the timeframe he had to work within. It very
clearly demonstrates George’s drive and determination. He has incredible skills to be able to work with this extraordinarily fine technology
which has tolerances of 1/5th of a millimetre and to complete work that is normally done by machine.”
George’s work is one the wide range of final year projects showcased by WelTec Bachelor of Engineering students. Other projects students
have worked on have resulted in better tasting beer, faster stormwater runoff systems, a hydrogen fuelled hob, a device which sieves fossils
from rock samples, modern train signals for KiwiRail and developing a screen which assists the Kaitoke Intake to extract significantly more
litres of water per day.
George Francis Bachelor of Engineering
Technology student with the new
electronic control unit prototype that is
being put into production for fire engine
water cannons like the one held by Fraser
Engineering GM Martin Simpson.
The device will mean fire fighters can
remain in their cabs and use a joy stick
to drive a water cannon thereby greatly
reducing safety risks.
Young engineer designs sustainable environmental solution
Rachel Harrison with Phil Read from Calibre.
Rachel Harrison is young, talented and passionate about her work as an engineer, designing solutions to protect the environment. She’s used
to finding solutions to problems. One of Rachel’s challenges involved designing a new stormwater system to prevent flooding in the Porirua
Station commuter carpark, and to remove contaminants from runoff before it enters the Porirua Stream. This was part of a larger project that
Calibre Consulting Ltd (formerly Spiire NZ Ltd) was involved with to extend the Porirua carpark for the client, Greater Wellington Rail Ltd (a
subsidiary of the Greater Wellington Regional Council).
Rachel decided this would be a great project for the final year of her Bachelor of Engineering Technology at the Wellington Institute of
Technology (WelTec). “Civil Engineers have an important role to play minimising the impact of urban development on our environment such
as stopping contaminated water polluting our waterways. It’s really satisfying investigating a problem, designing a solution and seeing it
built,” says Rachel, whose stormwater pipework installation will be completed in the New Year.
As a secondary school student at St Mary’s College in Wellington, Rachel enjoyed technical problem solving, and with a family history of
Engineers, it was “very natural” to carry on and study engineering. Firstly she gained the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering, and then
went on to complete her Bachelor of Engineering Technology, having just finished this month.
Rachel has worked for Calibre Consulting Ltd for 7 years, having joined the company as a cadet while completing her Diploma. “I am keen on
engineering because of my interest in solving problems and contributing to environmental protection. Engineering allows you to be creative,
use your design skills and to work to solve real-world problems,” says Rachel.
The stormwater improvements will reduce the risk of flooding in the Porirua carpark, while minimising the contaminants associated with
vehicle use entering the Porirua Stream. The final design also incorporates the need to keep ongoing maintenance costs to a minimum, and
to maximise utilisation of the redeveloped area.
Phil Read, Rachel’s Team Leader at Calibre says of her work, “One of Rachel’s strengths is her drive to produce sound engineering designs
that are ‘right’ and conform to current engineering standards. It’s this ‘getting it right’ attitude that I think flows through to her looking for
ways to include sustainable design elements into her engineering solutions that will have a low impact on the environment and the end
users.”
Bob McGrath, Rachel’s engineering tutor at WelTec says, “Rachel’s work exemplifies the attributes of our graduates, notably technical
excellence and the development of practical solutions to everyday problems”.
Rachel’s work was showcased as part of the final year projects by WelTec Bachelor of Engineering students at WelTec’s Petone campus this
month. Click here to view the full booklet.
Wellington Institute of Technology recognised as leading International
Education provider by JJL China
Wellington Institute of Technology International marketing Manager Brian Cao (far left) receiving the Best Services Award from JJL.
It’s been a great month for international education at the Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec). The largest intake of international
students for this time of year recently received a warm welcome to WelTec’s campus. To top this off WelTec was recognised by one of the
largest and most highly regarded student recruitment agents in China, JJL.
At JJL’s 15th anniversary celebration function WelTec received the highly sought after "Best Services Award" as recognition of the on-going
support to international students recruited by JJL during their studies at WelTec.
“Gaining this prestigious award indicates the world class standard of education and student services WelTec provides, and reinforces the
message to Chinese students and their parents that WelTec should be at the top of their list when they are considering a tertiary education
in New Zealand,” says Linda Sissons.
“We are very honoured to be recognised in this way particularly as JJL has 150 preferred partners that it works with around the world and
we are one of only three New Zealand education providers to be recognised.”
JJL serves around 45,000 clients each year with offices located in more than 30 major cities throughout China and works with thousands
of institutions in 23 countries. JJL works closely with Chinese families and students to facilitate the study abroad process, offering one-stop
service in-country, in their host country, and when students return home.
Proud Pasifika community celebrate student success
The pride, hopes and aspirations for the future
generation of skilled builders and carpenters
was keenly felt at a Pasifika community
event held last month. 18 young Pasifika
carpentry students from the Maori Pasifika
Trades Training Scholarship programme were
celebrated for successfully completing a level
3 qualification with WelTec this year.
Reverend Nove Vailaau, the Pasifika Churches
representative on the Wellington Consortium
overseeing Maori and Pasifika Trades Training, said of the celebration, “It is very heartening to see our young learners who have progressed
so far from the start of the year achieve their goals. We believe these students are now very employable and we urge companies with skills
shortages to make contact.”
“These young people are the forerunners and future leaders of our community. They should feel very proud of their achievements as
the community feels pride in them,” said Reverend Samuelu, secretary of the Hutt Valley Branch of the Fellowship of Samoan Ministers in
Wellington, who addressed the students, their fono, other members of the community, and the teaching and mentoring team from WelTec
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who had joined together to celebrate the students’ success. “Pasifika Churches are involved in supporting trades training students and you
should know that we will continue to support you as you move into the next stage of your career,” said Reverend Malaki Muaiava, chair of the
Hutt Valley branch of the Fellowship of Samoan Ministers Wellington.
The students who learnt together as a group throughout the year under their WelTec tutor Len Matautia built a house from scratch and it is
now for sale. “The students’ work has been outstanding and they have worked well as individuals and as part of a team. The house they built
is to a very high standard,” said Neil McDonald Head of Construction at WelTec.
“We enjoy the opportunity to support young people’s achievement in the trades. Some of these students have come through the Wellington
Trades Academy and have spent this year studying for this level 3 qualification. It is particularly heartening to see these students achieve
so well. WelTec has a strong track record with the highest qualification completion rate of any institution in New Zealand delivering Pasifika
Trades Training. Part of our approach is to work very hard on the skills needed to be a builder, but also to ensure students have computing,
numeracy, literacy, teamwork and leadership skills which is what an employer looks for in their workforce. These students definitely have
great potential to go far in the industry,” says Neil McDonald
Success for Māori trades training students
2014 has ended on a high for 16 Māori
students who have completed their pretrade carpentry qualification by building
a new health centre at Waiwhetu Marae
in Lower Hutt, Wellington. The students,
most of whom have received a scholarship
under the Government’s Maori and Pasifika
Trades Training initiative are finishing their
programme of study this week having
successfully completed their training whilst
being hosted by Waiwhetu Mare.
Teri Puketapu (Executive Officer Te Rūnanganui o Taranaki Whānui o Te Upoko a Te Ika) addressed the students marking the end of their
academic programme of study. “You now have the basis for a great career in the building and construction industry. With the skills you have
learnt on the marae under the tuition of WelTec’s Hector Rurehe and Tamaiti Whangai Mentor, Rangi Luke you will be able to make a great
contribution to your own and your whanau’s future by one day being able to build your own home,” said Teri Puketapu.
Teri Puketapu also acknowledged the unique Tamaiti Whāngai approach to supporting Māori students through their studies which has
greatly contributed to the students’ success. “The mentoring provided through Tamaiti Whāngai ensures the students are retained in study
and do well throughout the year. Having the students together as a Maori cohort has also meant they have developed strong bonds that will
exist well beyond their time studying together,” says Teri Puketapu.
David Lomax, Tamaiti Whāngai Team Leader addressed the students, “Māori Trades Training offers amazing opportunities for young
Māori to do well. All of these students have succeeded. They have learnt resilience, the value of team work and have been very focused on
achieving their end goal. They have all done well.”
Aidan Daly who was a Wellington Trades Academy student in 2013 and enrolled on the carpentry programme this year said being involved
in the build was a real highlight, “I have really developed my building skills and learnt new techniques.”
Another student Rivers Grout who is due to start work with RBS Commercial and Residential Contractors Limited is very positive about his
future, “Once I’ve proven myself with my new employer I want to continue my study as an apprentice to become fully qualified.”
More than 120 students have been mentored through the Māori and Pasifika Trades Training initiative through WelTec this year.
Wellington viewpoint wins student top prize
A recent arrival to New Zealand Kumiko Matsumoto has taken out the top creative award in a stunning exhibition of young creative talent
which was on show at the New Zealand Portrait Gallery, Shed 11 on Wellington’s Queens Wharf last month.
Kumiko Matsumoto who has completed a Bachelor of Creative Technologies degree with the Wellington Institute of Technology created a
brand new viewpoint of Wellington’s identity using screen printing, letter press printing, paper illustration, typography, and font design. “I like
to challenge the boundaries of art and design,” says Kumiko who was thrilled to receive the top student award presented by Andrew Glennie
from Gordon Harris – national art and graphic store.
Kumiko’s project - Wellington City Identity - originally came to fruition through her affection and passion for her new home: Wellington city.
Kumiko says, “Branding does not exist only for selling products and promoting businesses, it can be a good influence for the community. A
strong visual identity benefits the city and attracts visitors, giving citizens pleasure and pride which also positively influences the economy.
Graphic design has the power to brand a city in a creative way and contributes to society.”
Kumiko’s talent was recognised when her artwork was blown up to a grand scale appearing on Metlink buses across Wellington in 2013.
“Work of this calibre is wonderful to see in young artists. Kumiko is clearly a talented graphic
designer which is being recognised by industry peers. I am so impressed by her designs and her
interpretations of Wellington are refreshing and dazzling,” says Linda Sissons.
Other work recognised were the Semi-Permanent Outliers awards, presented by Simon Velvin
which went to April Wadley ('As I Stand' Photographic project) and Sarah Kirby ('F Waste', Recycling
Food Waste Graphic Design Campaign).
Abby Wang’s 7 minute documentary 'Migrant Birds’ on her experience of immigrating to New
Zealand also received special acknowledgment. Abby’s startling video which tracks her departure
from Beijing railway station to Wellington New Zealand can be viewed here.
World of opportunities for New Zealand graduates
Caroline Arapoff (Plastic Studio) and Kelly Lensen (Red Pebble) – WelTec Graduates
The Summer Olympics, Edinburgh Festival, London Film Festival, Summer Olympic Games, Glastonbury Festival, London Film Festival,
Cricket and Rugby World Cup – these are just a few of the amazing events New Zealand graduates contribute to as a world of opportunities
opens up for them after completing a New Zealand Graduate Diploma in Event Management.
The graduates joined current students and special guests from the event management and hospitality industries including Ruth and Paul
Pretty of Ruth Pretty Catering, Aimee Law and Mark Hartstonge of Boomrock, Casey O’Sullivan of the 2015 Cricket World Cup in November
to mark five years of delivery of the Graduate Diploma in Event Management by the Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec).
“I’m amazed at the events graduates and current students have worked on. They are really showcasing their talent on the world stage,” says
Linda Sissons. “Joany Grima, lecturer and programme manager of the Graduate Diploma in Event Manager is internationally regarded as a
leading academic and researcher in this field. Joany combines her role at WelTec with being the Project Manager for the Commonwealth
People’s Forum (pre-runner to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting) and is currently preparing for the 2015 Forum in Valletta,
Malta,” says Linda Sissons.
Sarah Metcalfe, one of the first students to graduate with the GDEM and who now works for Displayways, one of New Zealand’s leading
event companies commented, “My New Zealand qualification is the whole reason I’ve done so well internationally and back home. I have
worked on the London Olympics and the Rugby World Cup. I loved it. I can work anywhere in the world with this qualification.”
Kelly Lensen has worked on projects as diverse as TRENZ and the New Zealand Children’s Book Awards. Kelly graduated top of her class in
2011 and now works for Red Pebble Event Design. “I’ve developed skills in room and stage design so I can combine event management with
my creativity and design skills,” says Kelly.
Caroline Arapoff has combined her marketing and event management skills to work as
a digital marketer at Plastic Studio. Previously Caroline worked for well known sports
travel company Williment Travel and was the events and marketing manager at Roxy
Cinema. “I was a bit lost after finishing my marketing degree at University. Completing
the Graduate Diploma in Event Management means I have the perfect match of skills for
my current role.
Jimmy Austin worked on the World Press Photo Exhibition for his practicum. His
supervisor Daz Martin from Verve – a New Zealand event management agency says,
“It’s great to support up-and-coming event managers. Providing opportunities for
young students like Jimmy to work in industry on projects is a way of our company
Paying it Forward. It’s also a chance for Verve to scope new talent.”
“The Graduate Diploma is at a point where our graduates are now hosting event
management students on internships, and they are also employers of new students
completing the programme. Event management education at WelTec could not be
successful without the on-going support from industry we enjoy and our excellent
teaching”, says Linda Sissons. “Training future event management professionals is a
great collaboration between WelTec and industry and it’s fantastic to see our graduates
achieving so well.”
Casey O’Sullivan (2015 Cricket World Cup) with
Joany Grima (WelTec Graduate Diploma in
Event Management Lecturer)
Jimmy Austin (student) and Daz Martin (Verve)
WelTec hosts the Community Colleges Department,
Ministry of Education Malaysia
Last month WelTec hosted visitors from the Malaysian Ministry of Education. Topics discussed included:
1.
Learning how TVET (Technical, Vocational, Education and Training) is implemented by WelTec.
2.
Looking at ways to improve the current system in Community Colleges in Malaysia.
3.
Initiating networking and any opportunities for future academic collaboration of all sorts
4.
Maori Education and Pasifika Education.
Mohd Erfino Johari, Director/Counsellor (Education), Education Malaysia New Zealand (EMNZ) commented very positively on
WelTec’s contribution to vocational education and training.
Junior Corneotherapist of the year
WelTec student Charlotte Redshaw, (skinfocus, Wellington,
New Zealand) was awarded the Junior Corneotherapist
of the year. Charlotte completed a Certificate in Make-up
Artistry (Level 3) at WelTec, then decided to further her
knowledge in the beauty industry by studying a diploma
in Beauty Therapy. Charlotte is especially interested in skin
health and Corneotherapy.
Bachelor of Hospitality Management students present end of year
projects to industry
How does recruitment and training affect the success of a small food and beverage operation? How can an organisation’s ability to
successfully employ ‘storytelling’ aid customer attraction and retention?
WelTec Bachelor of Hospitality students completed year-long projects to answer these and other tough questions as they concluded
their degrees. Senior Hospitality Management Lecturer, Leanne Nicholas, has been working alongside students to address contemporary
hospitality management issues for a wide range of organisations across Wellington. “This component of the degree challenges students to
apply knowledge acquired over the course of their studies in real working environments,” says Nicholas.
Industry and students alike are enthusiastic about the outcomes of the projects, with clients including The Accor Group, Amora Hotel,
Chow, Pita Pit, Kingsgate Hotel, Epicure Ltd, ToTal Service Solutions Ltd and Compass Group. "Francie Clarkson (student) worked with us
to produce a fantastic report on our social media activity, including a great comparison with similar businesses around the country. Francie
gave us exactly the information we needed to know but would never had time to collect ourselves, and we've already started implementing
her recommendations,” says Grace Kreft of Sweet Bakery and Cakery.
“Jaclyn Campbell (student) provided a fresh insight to what we do know, but cannot see as our focus is distributed throughout the business",
says Gale Campbell of Ajynk Properties. By working with a Hospitality industry client in the exploration of contemporary issues and trends
or in the resolution of a work based problem or opportunity, students have the opportunity to research an area of special interest to them.
Student Olivia Walding-Karaitiana feels that the project has built her confidence as well as her network. “By completing this project, I have
built new relationships with industry professionals and also my confidence”, a sentiment echoed by fellow student, Caroline Watt. “This
project has enhanced my passion and excitement for hospitality. Not only has it taught me a lot about hospitality management first hand, it
has also taught me a lot about myself.”
Students presented outcomes and recommendations of their projects to industry partners on Thursday 23 October at the School of
Hospitality campus.
Professor Goran Roos
WelTec hosted a roundtable discussion with Professor Roos on Friday, 12 December to senior managers and invited external stakeholders.
His presentation focused on how tertiary providers and the manufacturing industry can work together to foster innovation.
Professor Roos is a global expert in the fields of national and regional innovation systems issues, Honorary Professor at Warwick Business
School in the UK, and visiting Professor of Intangible Asset Management and Performance Measurement at the Centre for Business
Performance at Cranfield University UK.
Linda Sissons, Goran Roos and Peter Allport, Chairman Magritek Ltd
Environmental problem one step closer to being solved
Since 2006 the Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) has provided support to a number of research and development entities which
have undertaken projects in the area of alternative fuels. One of these projects has centred around the collecting and disposal of small
dispersed amounts of waste lubrication oils [ULO], particularly because of the dangers ULOs pose to New Zealand’s underground water and
above ground water systems such as streams, rivers and lakes.
The Project
The researchers set out to determine whether Waste Oil Alternative Fuels were:
•
An economic, practical and sustainable methodology that could be utilised to drive the capture of significantly larger amounts of these small dispersed quantities of waste ULOs
• An option that would allow this collected ULO to be re-processed into a usable fuel that could be used in unmodified diesel engines and generators as close as possible to its point of collection thereby minimising the contamination risk involved when bulked up amounts of ULO are transported for recycling or disposal.
Photo of a current collection site
Activities Undertaken
The expectation had been that it would be relatively straight forward to create a collection system which would allow individuals to safely
and effectively re-cycle these small quantities of waste lube oil, the team spoke to a number of commercial entities about their involvement
in such a collection /re-cycling scheme, but it became very obvious that without a means of generating a return to the commercial entity
for establishing and running such a facility, the chances of establishing a long term hazard free and sustainable system were not promising.
As a result of these findings and the fact that the failure to establish such a collection system would cause significant delays in achieving the
goals the team had set itself in the Project Proposal in respect to the capture and re-cycling of such ULOs, the R&D team determined that it
should focus on two activities.
These were:
•
To investigate existing methods used to collect small dispersed quantities of waste lube oil [ULO] and identify ways that WelTec might make a positive contribution to improve current practice.
•
To ensure that a new process developed by one of the R&D entities WelTec was supporting was tested against a recognised standard to ensure that it could produce customised / blended fuels that included a % of ULO which could safely be run in an unmodified diesel engine
or generator.
( 1 ) Current collection methods for small dispersed quantities of ULO
The investigation into how small dispersed quantities of waste lube oil [ULO] were currently collected, showed a wide range of approaches
being used, but of particular concern was the type of collection facilities where individuals could drop off quantities of waste oil which was
brought to the sites in a wide range of containers. The ULO in these containers were often then emptied into a bulk storage tank by the
individuals themselves without supervision, which immediately increases the hazards posed by this environmentally damaging substance.
In small amounts ULO poses a problem, but when bulked up in one place the risk it presents increases exponentially.
Outcome of Activity 1
As a result of the findings of this investigation, there was a clear need for the development of a standardised collection unit which would
allow the safe collection, storage and initial processing of these small batch quantities of ULO. Working with an oil industry expert, WelTec
has developed a concept for a unit which would allow all the above criteria plus all current environmental and health and safety regulations’
currently in place to be met.
( 2 ) Testing of a blended fuel using 5% ULO
This activity set out to ensure that a new process developed by one of the R&D entities WelTec was supporting was tested against a recognised
standard to ensure that it could produce customised / blended fuels that included a % of ULO could safely be run in an unmodified diesel
engine and / or generator. It had initially been decided to run a vehicle for a period of six months on a customised / blended fuel produced
using the Smart Mix process which had been developed. Instead it was later determined that an alternative method which would test the
fuel produced by the process in an engine under the conditions set by the Engine Manufacturers’ Association would be a more preferable
approach as this would allow replication of the test with this fuel and other fuels as they were developed. Using the Engine Manufacturers
Association’s 200 Hour Test protocols a new engine was run on a blended fuel which had a 5% ULO content.
Outcome of Activity 2
The independently verified results were that after careful analysis of the dynamometer data and the engine measurements and visual
condition, it can be concluded that there is no significant “wear and tear’ on the test engine as a result of undergoing the EMA 200 hour test
using the alternative blended fuel.
Future Activities
Following the successful testing of a blended fuel produced by using the Smart Mix Process the R&D entity is in the process of
commercialising the technology and discussions are being held with possible early adopters both in New Zealand and Internationally.
The successful completion of any one of these discussions would allow WelTec to consider undertaking the detailed design of the
Standardised ULO Collection Unit so that one could be built and deployed on-site at the first user’s facility. This would then allow a
collection programme in the surrounding community to be initiated which would be measured overtime to establish how successful it is,
thereby fulfilling one of the original objectives set in the Project Proposal submitted. The Research and Development entity will also be
continuing its long term programme as it has been found that the Smart Mix Process appears to be able to produce blended stable and
engine safe fuels using not only ULO but also other types of waste oils and bio-fuels. At least one overseas University and a Research
Unit have approached the R&D entity to discuss future joint research, something that will provide additional benefits to New Zealand.
The full report on the Waster Oil Alternatives Fuels project can be viewed here.
WelTec’s School of Engineering Technology offers a Water and Waste speciality for the Bachelor of Engineering Technology and is launching
a new Graduate Diploma in Engineering with a Water and Waste Engineering Major in 2015.
WelTec campuses close on 19 December and re-open on 5 January. We hope
you enjoy the break with family, whānau and friends and thanks again to
you for supporting WelTec, our staff and most importantly our students.
All WelTec campuses
are proudly
Smokefree
Connection is WelTec’s Newsletter to key stakeholders. Connection is produced quarterly.