Business feature: Komatsu apprenticeship

Date: 29.04.2022

Layla Hunter is set to become a fully qualified technician in heavy automotive engineering by the end of 2023, which means she will be at the leading edge of generational change in the construction and mining support industry

Layla is in the third year of her four-year apprenticeship programme

Layla Hunter is set to become a fully qualified technician in heavy automotive engineering by the end of 2023, which means she will be at the leading edge of generational change in the construction and mining support industry.

Layla, 22, is in the third year of her four-year apprenticeship programme and is training at Komatsu’s Christchurch branch. She loves her career so much that she’s already completed 80% of her MITO curriculum.

Layla Hunter

Layla acknowledges that "unconscious bias against females" exists in the industry but she’s certain it’s "a generational thing and is determined that it will change with her generation coming into the workplace".

"There’s nothing stopping females or anyone really, from being just as competent as a male in this industry," Layla says.

"It’s very physically demanding but it’s nothing you can’t get used to. Health and safety requirements ensure that there are safe lifting methods available for assistance whenever heavy or awkward lifting is necessary. There are so many tools and techniques that allow everyone to be safely involved."

Increasing emphasis on electronics and laptop-based diagnostics is a key pointer towards the future. Layla is already considering upskilling with an electrical qualification after completing her engineering course.

"It will be a great way to take advantage of Komatsu’s advances in new immersive electronic technology," she says.

Layla selected Komatsu with great care as her career of choice. She researched companies in the industry and took an interest in the earthmoving sector while working for a cable-laying company where she was employed as a traffic controller.

"I knew a mechanical career would be a great option for me," she says.

"I started a pre-trade certificate in 2019 and found out it was a key requirement for the Komatsu apprenticeship intake. I had completed a certificate in Automotive Engineering and was able to present it in the interview."

Komatsu’s comprehensive career employment process seeks to ensure the right fit for both the company and its potential new team member.

Layla was one of six apprentices to join the 2020 intake and underwent a two-week familiarisation at Komatsu’s Australasian technical support facility at Sherwood in Brisbane.
"My Mum has always encouraged me to do what I want to in life and enjoy it," Layla says.

"Working and studying in several different industries has made me realise what I’m passionate about and what I will be happy having a career in."

And there have been side benefits. "I’m now able to fix my own car, save money, and not have to worry about relying on someone else," she says.

Layla is taking a long-term view of her Komatsu career. "I want to be fully qualified within two years and be confident enough to teach my skills to the next generation by the time I’m 30, like those who are training me."

Komatsu’s technology is changing and evolving to suit the future so quickly that there will always be something new to learn.

For more information, visit komatsu.co.nz.

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