2023

Jordan Olsen

Whangarei

This year I was lucky enough to receive the Geoff Walsh Memorial Scholarship to assist with my NZDE studies, and my ultimate goal of becoming a Certifying Engineer.​

I have nearly completed my first year of study and can honestly say that without the assistance of the GWMS I don’t believe I would have successfully completed this first year.

The financial support I received has helped pay for the course fees and travel expenses related to the NZDE qualification.

I live and work full-time in Whangarei with a young family, so the constant juggle of life has been eased by the financial assistance provided by the scholarship. Allowing me to concentrate on my qualification and not worrying about making ends meet has certainly led to better outcomes for my family and myself.

I have also been humbled by the support, guidance and advice I have received so far through this process. From the time I started the manufacturing certifiers course I have been extremely encouraged by the willingness of the industry to support new certifiers along a fairly daunting journey. I thank everyone at HVE, TTMF and the GWMS for their help so far.

I would encourage anyone who wants to contribute to the industry to apply for the scholarship and become familiar with the various groups associated. Like many, I have seen the pressures on existing certifiers, and encouraging a new generation along will strengthen and future-proof the industry.​