TOPNZ (Open Polytechnic) learner Jillian Wilson has won the first-ever NZCB (New Zealand Certified Builders) Apprentice Challenge design competition.

“I’m pretty chuffed. It’s taken me a long time to get here,” Jillian says.

Architectural design learners were asked to submit their building plans for a durable planter box, with the winning design to be built by up to 100 apprentices when they compete in the regional heats of the practical competition.

Competition winner Jillian has just completed her NZ Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6) studies by online learning with Open Polytechnic, which she calls a “second career” after being a homeschooling mother for 25 years.

“I’m from a construction family, so becoming an architect has always been a dream of mine,” Jillian says. Jillian’s design is inspired by the functional simplicity of public seating in her local park in Auckland. Judges said Jillian’s design demonstrated a strong level of complexity.

According to Open Polytechnic Academic Staff Member Masi Shiran, the NZ Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6) equips learners with skills in construction principles, building design, and digital technologies, all relevant to New Zealand’s regulatory framework.

“Our graduates have the skills to join construction companies, architectural practices, and city councils, contributing to the country’s vibrant construction sector,” she says.

Open Polytechnic also offers quantity surveying and construction management qualifications as part of their suite of Built Environment and Trade programmes.

For further details go to the Open Polytechnic website: https://www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz