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Our Student of the Year Award was launched in 2023 to recognise the hard work and dedication of candidates who impressed us on their learning journeys. It is presented at the annual Building Officials Institute of New Zealand (BOINZ) Conference.

These students support classmates while showing great academic prowess, leadership, mentorship and communication abilities.

One of this year’s recipients was James Kirkland, of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council. James says it was a true honour to receive the award.

“It was completely unexpected, but being recognised by Future Skills meant a great deal to me.”

He says one of his study highlights was working alongside fellow classmates to navigate each course, and learning and developing together.

“I also greatly enjoyed learning from the tutors, who imparted their extensive knowledge and experience in a very professional and congenial manner.”

James works as a Building Control Officer (BCO) at the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, primarily responsible for processing building consents.

“The most enjoyable part of my job is the constant learning and research involved on a daily basis. The opportunities for learning in the building control industry often feel limitless,” he says.

James started his building control career in 2018 at the Masterton District Council.

“What attracted me to the building control industry was learning about legislation, standards, and how the regulatory environment operates.”

Future Skills Building Surveying Head of Department Patrick Schofield said he had watched James overcome challenges and progress into an excellent BCO.

He said his classmates had appreciated his assistance, knowledge, and kind, professional manner.

2024 has produced some excellent students across New Zealand, who met and surpassed the criteria set for the award. After much consideration, we decided that we could not separate our top two candidates. James shares this year’s award with Vahishta Patel.