The Apprentice of the Year Award has always held a special place in our industry. Over the years, it has evolved in many forms, but its purpose remains constant: to celebrate and encourage the next generation of talent entering industrial textile fabrication. The Tier 1 category, in particular, shines a light on apprentices who are at the very beginning of their training — less than 15 months into their journey — and gives them an opportunity to showcase the skills they’re developing.

At this year’s gala dinner, the celebration of apprentices was introduced with powerful words that reminded us all of what this award is truly about:

“Ladies and gentlemen, the next part of this evening is something truly special—it’s about celebrating the future of our industry: the next generation of talent who will carry the Industrial Textile sector forward… You are the future of industrial textile fabrication in New Zealand, and we are thrilled to celebrate you.”

All apprentices who entered the competition were invited to attend the dinner free of charge, and it was heartwarming to see them recognised alongside their families, partners, and employers. Their courage to step forward and compete is something we all benefit from as an industry.

The Tier 1 category has had many different iterations, but the last four years, W Wiggins have provided all materials needed for the Tier 1 project. MAST Academy has been a sponsor of this award over the last four years, providing a cash prize of $250. The Tier 1project for is a messenger bag — a seemingly simple design, but one that tests accuracy, attention to detail, and technique. Unlike Tier 2, which allows for creative flair, Tier 1 is about precision and faithfully following the specifications.

This year, with the rollout of the new industrial textiles qualifications, apprentice numbers were a little lower, and we had just one entry in Tier 1. But as was noted on the night, that doesn’t diminish the achievement — it highlights the determination and commitment it takes to stand up and be judged.

The 2025 Tier 1 Apprentice of the Year is Bryce Farrow from Total Trim Canvas & Upholstery. Unfortunately, Bryce was unable to attend the awards evening in person, but he shared with us the process he followed in creating his entry:

“I had an assignment of a mail bag and had specific requirements as per task sheet. I started out by measuring out on the canvas material and using white chinagraph. Once I had all my measurements marked out, I cut out with scissors. I then marked out extra pockets I wanted to put in my bag also then cut them out as well as my reinforcing… I found binding and going around corners the hardest to sew other than that I found it a good project to work on.”

Bryce’s honesty and attention to detail reflects exactly what the Tier 1 award is designed to celebrate: the development of strong foundational skills. While he may have been the only entry this year, his work and commitment are a credit to both himself and his employer.

Congratulations, Bryce — our 2025 ATA NZ Tier 1 Apprentice of the Year.

We also thank Joe Daw from MAST Academy for presenting the award, and we acknowledge once again the support of W Wiggins and MAST Academy for making this category possible.

The Tier 1 award reminds us all of why apprenticeships matter: they are the foundation on which the future of our industry is being built.