OFPANZ is excited to announce a change in training from MITO to MAST Academy for our Industrial Textile Fabrication Learners.

MITO’s Transition Plan, as part of the Reform of Vocational Education, has reached its final milestone with approval received from the Tertiary Education Commission’s Board of Commissioners to transfer its arranging training functions.

On 1 January 2022 MITO’s arranging training functions for the industrial textile fabrication industry will transfer to MAST Academy.

MITO Chief Executive Janet Lane says there was strong support from industrial textile fabrication stakeholders, which includes OFPANZ and employers with current MITO learners, to transition to MAST Academy.

“Through engagement with our industry partners, it was clear that there was significant alignment to the marine and composites industry and the bespoke service that MAST Academy provides.”

MAST Academy is a new private training establishment formed by NZ Marine and Composites ITO.

Chris van der Hor, CEO of MAST Academy, sees a natural alignment with the industrial textile fabrication industry to the marine and composites industry. “We are looking forward to welcoming our newest sector on 1 January 2022 with the opportunity to provide our niche, high level of services and support to learners and employers undertaking on-job training.”

“We will continue the good work and build on the long-standing relationships already established by MITO in advising the sector on all aspects of training and qualifications, to ensure the ongoing supply of qualified and skilled individuals to meet the growing needs of this diverse sector.”

As well as facilitating the New Zealand Certificate in Industrial Textile Fabrication (Level 3), MAST Academy will also offer TrimUp®, the Industrial Textile Fabrication Micro-credential (Level 2), developed by MITO, which offers a pathway for secondary school students to the industry. 

MITO and MAST Academy will work together to ensure a seamless transition for all learners and employers with the associated systems and processes transferred to MAST Academy to take effect from 1 January 2022.