At Programmed Facility Management, we believe strong communities and strong businesses go hand in hand. That’s why we’re proud to partner with the Māori and Pasifika Trades Training Programme (MPTT), a nationally funded initiative supported by the Tertiary Education Commission that helps remove barriers to training and employment for Māori and Pasifika learners aged 16–40.
The programme combines industry training with cultural and pastoral support, helping learners build both practical skills and confidence as they transition into meaningful careers.
Our involvement with the programme began through a request from Auckland Council, who approached us to partner with MPTT and help create pathways for under-represented and at risk youth to enter the trades.
For Programmed, the decision was an easy one. As Michael O’Keefe, Senior Operations Manager at Programmed, explains:
“It’s not good enough for us to grow as a business, we have to grow with our community and bring them along. Initiatives like this allow us to support local individuals and create opportunities that have much wider positive impacts.”
That impact is already being seen through the success of two apprentices who joined the programme and are now stepping into full-time roles with Programmed: Sio Tafiti and Filipo Asu Buiroata.
For both apprentices, the experience has been about more than learning new skills, it’s been about gaining confidence, mentorship and a clear pathway forward.
“When I first started as an apprentice I was nervous and didn’t really know what to expect,” says Sio. “But getting hands on experience and support from the team and managers has been really good. I feel ready to take on more responsibility.”
The transition into full-time employment has also created stability and opportunity for their families.
“Being employed full-time means a lot,” says Filipo. “I don’t have to worry about contracts anymore. I can just show up to work, do my job, and provide for my family.”
As a young fathers, having a stable role means they can focus on supporting his whānau and building a long term career.
The success of Sio and Filipo highlights the wider impact of initiatives like MPTT.
As programme representative, Wendy Savieti explains, when one person gains employment, the positive effects extend well beyond the individual.
“A win for Sio and Filipo is a win for their communities. Employment improves whānau wellbeing and reduces financial pressures. These partnerships truly transform lives.”
For Programmed, partnerships like this are about building sustainable pathways into the industry and ensuring the next generation of technicians and tradespeople are supported by experienced mentors.
Michael says the programme has already proven the value of combining training with real world experience.
“We’re seeing practical learning being put into action every day. When young people are mentored by experienced technicians and given real opportunities, their confidence grows and their potential is realised.”
Programmed sees the partnership with MPTT as a long term commitment, one that strengthens our workforce while contributing to stronger communities across Auckland.
Because when we invest in people, everyone benefits.
