Designed by CCNZ, EPIC is an industry career promotion platform designed to make working on our roading, water, energy and other infrastructure networks more accessible to those who may not have been aware of the opportunity.
CCNZ chief executive Peter Silcock says this initiative is long overdue, and opportunities in civil trades and infrastructure have been a hidden gem for too long.
“EPIC aims to show people the gateway to a successful career they can be proud of. That they can work as part of a great team in the outdoors instead of being stuck behind a desk.
“That they can build something they can point out to their children in 20 years’ time.”
He adds that with such an exciting industry founded on technology and innovation at hand, it was important for the industry and government agencies to work together to change public perceptions about working in civil trades.
“We’re investing in finding the next generation of civil contractors. Once they’ve made a start, this is a great industry at recognising talent and giving people opportunities.
“People are finding their way into leadership roles very early in their careers. There are people who own successful businesses at age 24, and people whose lives have changed through experiences like working on the Kaikoura rebuild, or Waterview Tunnel.”
Transport minister Phil Twyford adds that thousands of new workers will be needed in coming years to deliver on infrastructure investment and maintenance.
“EPIC gives New Zealanders a great insight into what a career in infrastructure is all about.
“There’s a lot of work coming up, and much of it is vital for our country to grow. “
EPIC is based around five themes already known to attract people to the industry and remind contractors why they work in the industry. These themes include technology, the scale of the projects and equipment, team spirit, and working out in our great outdoors.
The programme will be accessible through a dedicated website at www.EPICwork.nz; social media channels; and promoted through a toolkits of posters and guides that will be sent out to contractors across the nation to support them in spreading the word.
Plus, a digital resources toolkit provides videos and images featuring work in the industry for social media posts and for employers to co-brand and use in their own career promotion campaigns.
More content focused on connecting people with opportunities more directly will be released later in the year.
Resources for CCNZ members are available for download from the ‘Members Dashboard’ in the CCNZ website.
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