Site visit for Building Regula...
Our NZ Certificate in Building Regulatory Environment (BRE) in-class stream of students had the opportunity to see their learning...
Matthew Crone leads a double life. During the day, the Diploma in Building Surveying student is a Building Control Officer at Selwyn District Council. But outside office hours he dashes to save lives when the Lincoln Volunteer Fire Brigade alarm sounds.
The 39-year-old joined the brigade four years ago after moving to Lincoln in Christchurch and investigating the source of the small town’s loud siren. “It was like the role was made to satisfy my serving pathway and give back to the community.” Every emergency is memorable even if it doesn’t go according to plan, he says. “It’s about getting out and helping your community and it beats sitting on the couch. One that really got the team thinking was a horse stuck in a small river four metres down. Everyone brought different life experiences to make the rescue successful.”
The firefighter started studying the NZ Diploma in Building Surveying (Blended online) at the beginning of the year. In July he landed a dream role at the council where his job will soon change to Building Surveyor, he says. Matthew will be moving to the NZ Diploma in Building Surveying (In employment) programme to fit learning around his work. Firefighter training in leadership and responsibility has bolstered his professional life, he says. “All the tools they teach, from working as a team to professional development, has made a stronger and better employee and work colleague.”
Matthew worked in the building industry for 20 years, including a role in construction management for a housing company, before joining the council. “It’s a great team with a really cool vibe and a lot of chances for progression.”
During his time in construction, he talked to council inspectors about his interest in “the why of building and was told I would make a good building inspector.” This prompted him to enrol at Future Skills Academy where he valued how well the curriculum lined up with the role he was working towards. “Having the prior regulatory knowledge has given me a head start in how to read and understand the required Building Acts and Codes.”
When he’s not on call saving lives, Matthew enjoys spending his spare time with family members and pursuing outdoor sports.
