In a rapidly evolving job market, the demand for industry experience is increasing. Employers are seeking graduates who not only have theoretical knowledge but also practical, hands-on experience.
To meet these changing education needs, Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology is working closely with local businesses and industries to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real world application.
Our partnerships with businesses across our rohe (region) are crucial in providing real experience and career opportunities for our ākonga (students). These collaborations ensure graduates are well prepared to enter the workforce and contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields. By integrating industry experience into our learning, we are equipping students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
Some of the key initiatives supporting our efforts can be seen in the construction industry. Our academic leaders work closely with employers to support their new employees when gaining their qualifications while working full time. Alternatively, employers will approach us if they have an opportunity for our ākonga.
Architectural diploma students were recently given the opportunity to apply for a summer structural drafting internship. Our kaiako (tutors) supported interested students through the application process enabling one ākonga to successfully obtain the internship.
We also have great working relationships with civil construction organisations, enabling ākonga to access graduate programmes. Just one example saw a company, based in an area where there is no local civil engineering programme, reach out to Toi Ohomai. We customised a remote delivery option to support this organisation. This option is on a part time basis and in balance with on-the-job training and study.
As well as providing external opportunities for ākonga, Toi Ohomai supports them with high quality pastoral support. Our dedicated student support teams are continually looking for ways to provide holistic support to ensure learning on campus is backed up when ākonga are transitioning into work experience, internships and careers.
One such initiative was our inaugural wāhine-focused Tuakana – Teina mentoring programme, which began in 2024. This programme paired ngā ākonga wāhine Māori (female Māori students) with ngā kaimahi wāhine Māori (female Māori staff) for tailored support, helping them build confidence and develop leadership skills. By fostering a supportive learning environment, we enable students to unlock their potential and pursue their career goals.
Through the Tuakana – Teina programme, one ākonga wāhine secured an internship with Fruition Horticulture. This internship involved projects to digitise training content and develop interactive, gamified assessments. This experience not only enhanced the student’s technical skills, but she also gained a permanent position.
As we explore how to best serve our communities, we look forward to expanding our network of industry partners. By working together, we can create more internship opportunities that benefit our students and the local economy. These partnerships are essential in preparing our graduates to meet the demands of the modern workforce and drive innovation in their respective fields.
With strong domestic enrolments for 2025, we are excited about the future and the positive impact our graduates will have on the Bay of Plenty community and beyond. By bridging the gap between education and industry, we are not only enhancing learning experiences for our students but also contributing to the growth and development of our local business community.
