Stakeholder Meeting Outcomes

Current Status of FITEC Stakeholder Meeting Outcomes

Background

At the 2010 FITEC AGM stakeholders raised a number of issues. An update for the FITEC Council under headings raised by stakeholders is summarised below.

Increased Industry Contribution

This has been introduced after wide industry consultation and the impact is being monitored. Adjustments will be made in the future if required.

Separation of a Forestry and Wood Manufacturing

This has been overtaken by current ITO restructuring discussions where FITEC is participating in a third party (PWC) study of a possible Primary Sector ITO merger. This may include the possibility of separate forestry and manufacturing ITOs. However, any such development would require extensive industry consultation as there are mixed views – some favouring forestry and manufacturing specialisation, while others prefer to retain the integrated supply chain. Government is also encouraging less ITOs by suggesting various possible sector groupings, including a Primary Sector group. Any proposal would need to be based on a sound value proposition and would be subject to industry consultation. At this stage there is no specific proposal and the status quo will continue.

Regional Sector Operating Committees for Forestry

This has been actioned in part by combining the Forestry SOC with the NZFOA Training and Education Sub-Committee and therefore achieving better alignment with NZFOA. In addition regular meetings are held with key regional groups e.g. Southern Wood Council, Eastland Wood Council, and a Nelson/Marlborough Group. Regular meetings with the FICA Board also cover regional issues. Although further regional meetings will be considered, any advantages need to be balanced with cost and logistic considerations.

Adequate Standards and Moderation

This is recognised as a key area to ensure required industry standards are achieved. FITEC is acknowledged by NZQA and TEC as having strengths in this field. That is not to say that problems will not continue to arise from time to time, but they are immediately addressed with those concerned. Standard assessment documents have been produced to assist assessment consistency, and workshops have been held with Providers to ensure training standards are clear.

Retention of National Awards

The National Awards function is continuing, although it will always be dependent on industry financial support.

Retention of Industry Focus in any Primary Sector Merger

Any proposed outcome will be subject to industry consultation. At present early discussion is focused on cost and efficiency gains through combined back office functions.

Training Aligned with National Standards and Role Requirements

All qualification reviews focus on this. Wood Manufacturing qualifications were reviewed to include updated Saw Doctoring and Timber Grading pathways. A Crew Manager’s certificate was developed for the Forestry sector. Major improvements have been made in aligning training with role requirements by;

• aligning qualifications/programmes with role requirements
• ensuring consistency around role descriptions and job titles through improved ANZSCO definitions
• trend to on-job training

Pre-Employment Training Potential

Activity is underway on a number of fronts:

• Expansion of MSD schemes beyond Northland to East Coast, Hawkes Bay and Wairarapa (and others in time)
• Wider Government review of industry training includes need to extend ITO role to pre-employment
• Trade Academy
• Careers activities in schools

Rationalise Numbers of Programmes / Unit Standards

Over the last two years the number of FITEC unit standards has decreased from over 1000 to 815. 2011 will see additional reduction in the number of standards.

Tailored in-house Training Courses

FITEC is managing an accelerated trend from off-site to on-site (in-house) training. Improved training resources and materials are assisting this trend.

Review of Communications Materials

This is underway in a number of areas, including:

• improved website
• improved FITEC Wise (slimmed down and focussed on upcoming FITEC events)
• improved SOC agendas and meetings
• regular industry association updates