Open Polytechnic study opens up career opportunities

With a high demand in New Zealand for qualified, skilled engineering graduates, Open Polytechnic provides a variety of pathways through f lexible distance learning to help those working in the industry with professional development and career enhancement.

Blair Falconer, who is completing his National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Advanced Trade) this year, decided to study through Open Polytechnic to help him grow in his current role, and gain the skills to develop into a more senior role as his career progresses.

In his busy position as wind technician and electrician at Meridian Energy’s West Wind wind farm in Makara, Wellington, distance learning was the best option for him.

“I don’t have to attend class. It’s f lexible and I can study when it suits me, during my lunch breaks or after work,” he says.

Blair is looking to study further, with a solid foundation in Advanced Trade.

“I think the National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Advanced Trade) is a good taster in a lot of different areas, not just in electrical engineering, you also cover health and safety, drawing, accounting and electrical legislation.”

Open Polytechnic Head of School of Engineering, Trades and Construction, Christo Potgieter, says there are many study options for those looking to develop their engineering careers.

As well as the National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Advanced Trade), Open Polytechnic also offers a New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical) and the Bachelor of Engineering Technology.

“Our Bachelor of Engineering Technology is offered with the University of Southern Queensland, where students can gain overseas exposure during their block courses. We offer specialisations in Electrical/Electronic, Mechanical, and Civil Engineering,” says Christo.

For more information about studying Engineering with Open Polytechnic, visit openpolytechnic.ac.nz/engineering or call 0508 865 327 today.