Engineering business JE Systems in Kakapuaka assisted Balclutha man Aaron Taylor to achieve his certificate in mechanical engineering (trade) and general engineering level 4 apprenticeship this month.
Mr Taylor, 24, was awarded his official qualification certificates on Wednesday at his work site.
Mr Taylor knew he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps when it came to engineering.
"I used to go out and help him out on his jobs during school holidays and I just knew I wanted to follow his footsteps in the industry," he said.
"I was doing labouring jobs for a couple of businesses after high school when I was approached by my boss.
"We had crossed paths doing a couple of jobs together and he offered me an apprenticeship position which I took."
He said he became confident over time in his apprenticeship.
"It was a bit daunting at first, especially seeing the amount of paperwork and just starting out, but once I broke it down and got settled it was pretty easy going.
"No day is the same. There’s definitely a variety of different areas to do jobs, which I really enjoy."
He said he was "really excited" to have achieved the qualifications.
"I’m absolutely stoked that I’ve crossed the finish line."
"I worked really hard for the last few months because I could see the end in sight."
He thanked Competenz training adviser Stuart Hewson for his continual assistance in his apprenticeship and was thankful to retired Milton engineer Bruce Graham for the time the pair had put aside to help in their night-time study group of apprentice engineers.
Mr Taylor plans to stay local for the near future and progress in his career through the business with boss Jared Edwards and his co-workers.
JE Systems is planning to look for a new apprentice in the coming months.
