Good things come to those who wait is an old saying and one we saw come true recently. Since before Christmas, Kim Jepsen Transform Aotearoa’s manager has been communicating with Driver Training NZ about adding a Forklift license to their repertoire of programmes to help individuals gain or maintain employment. Once funding was sourced and secured, they set the date and with nine robust men and delivered their first Forklift programme in Tauranga. The group got split into two, one doing practical driving while the others did theory, then they swapped.
The banter between the men was comical throughout the course. They practically laughed their way through the day. Especially when arguing and debating over what the correct answers to the multi choice questions were. Common sense is not so common when you listen to the antics. It had the instructor pulling funny faces at the incorrect interpretation of the road rules. This light mood kept everyone entertained. To Kim’s delight five of the men can use their new endorsement immediately in their current employment or side hustles.
The feedback from the students were all positive. Because many had driven forklifts at some point, the process happened quicker than expected. Certificates were handed out and just like that the day was over. All going well, Transform will reapply for funding and see if they cannot make this a regular programme on their calendar.
Even the youngest and most inexperienced lad on the course sailed through. He did stay back after everyone else had left, to gain extra confidence using the forklift independently. Kim watched the live feed footage with the instructors from the office.
The facilitators were satisfied that the day was successful. They have offered their services any time Transform needs them. This is something Transform does to help support people with opportunities, that give them options for better employment.
