Graduate Lee McKenzie has netted his first tertiary qualification nearly two decades after leaving school. “I have generally relied on my contacts and broad skillset to secure jobs so have never really done any formal study outside of high school,” he says.
Now 35, Lee has earned the NZ Diploma in Building Surveying, Level 6 to back his career in the building industry. He received the diploma on December 22- his last day of work before the Christmas holidays. “It’s good to finally have a recognised qualification.”
A building consent assessor with Rotorua Lakes Council, his position involves checking building plans for compliance with the Building Act and code to ensure constructions are healthy, safe and sustainable. Future Skills Academy helped to expand his knowledge within the processing role and taught him the responsibilities and functions of other jobs which operated next to his job, he says. “My current role requires that I either hold a qualification or be working towards one. It made sense to jump at the opportunity to study the diploma in building surveying to help support my role and further my career in the building industry.”
Lee says the best part of the programme was having access to the tutors and other students for support as well as learning from their experiences and knowledge. “Having discussions and learning from the experiences of others was extremely valuable.”
He hails from Galatea, a farming district at the base of Te Urewera National Park in the North Island. After leaving home, the Hamurana resident relocated 45 minutes away to Rotorua where he has lived ever since.
Outside work, he boasts a wide range of interests. Lee used to build racing drones which he raced throughout New Zealand. “In my spare time, I like to tinker with technology. I enjoy computer-aided design, 3D printing and gaming.”
When he’s not behind the keyboard he can be found sitting at a drum kit. The talented musician has starred in a music video funded by NZ On Air. A fitness buff, Lee also competes in CrossFit competitions.
“Without my tutor, I couldn't have thought of higher studies."
“Perfecting the art of welding has been one of my main goals.”
“I am so proud and captivated because I got a good job.”
“Within two and a half years, I've been able to completely change industry role.”
“The course I am studying at Future Skills Academy has opened other avenues for me."
"Being able to study in a comfortable setting with others was a wonderful experience."
"I enjoyed studying with others who were in the same roles and sharing my knowledge with them."
"Royal Oak campus is a very lovely place, making me feel right at home."
"I had to turn things around by giving back to the community."
"The teacher was so supportive and always ready to help."
"I enjoyed meeting new people who were in the same boat as me."
