Jayden Jensen

It wasn’t easy but Jayden Jensen knows what can be achieved through perseverance after becoming a qualified builder. 

Jayden’s journey started while he was still at school in Tūrangi and he studied carpentry through the Trade Academy at Toi Ohomai. But that only piqued his curiosity. 

After returning from a stint in Australia, Jayden went in search of a pathway to become a builder. He eventually found an apprenticeship with Tūrangi builder Chris Smith and was then able to complete his trade through Toi Ohomai.

Jayden says he was grateful Chris was willing to take him on and give him the skills to be a builder.

 “I did a lot of renovations. I also built decks and fences. I didn’t really do any commercial work and eventually I wouldn’t mind exploring it, but for now I want to stay in Tūrangi.

“I know I’ve still got a lot more to learn, but when I get more confidence I want to get in to house-flipping. I’ve been talking to some of the guys who do it and they reckon it’s easy, so I can’t wait to give that a crack.”

Jayden also appreciated the support from Toi Ohomai during his apprenticeship. He says most of his learning was done on site, but he attended night classes and staff from Toi Ohomai would come to sign off his work.

“It was always great being able to catch up with the tutors and trade some stories or get some advice.”