| 29 Focus on training T T Russell Fredric Among its ongoing projects, OPS is actively engaged in the New Plymouth District Council 3 Waters Initiative. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Taranaki: OPS Plumbing and Pipeline See what our smart business solutions bring to the table Talk to your local 2degrees dealer Shirley Searle from Time2Talk 022 2000 230 shirley@time2talk.co.nz Making insurance easy for O.P.S. 06 769 5186 | www.theadvisers.co.nz As a prominent employer in the Taranaki region, with a staff of 54, OPS Plumbing and Pipeline (OPS) makes a significant contribution to the economic and social development of the region. The family-owned business has a strong focus on recruitment and training, offering ample opportunities and career pathways within the civil construction industry. Originally established in 2009 as a service provider for Taranaki’s specialized oil and gas sector, OPS has evolved to meet the changing demands of the region. With more than 30 years of experience, the company has built a solid reputation for delivering high-quality workmanship in plumbing, gas-fitting, pipeline construction, and management services to residential, commercial, and industrial markets. OPS recognizes the importance of developing a diverse skill base among its employees to meet the specialized nature of its projects. OPS asset integrity technician Denay Cottam says the company places a strong emphasis on continual staff development, ensuring that all employees have access to career pathways and growth opportunities. “Unlike industries where temporary labour is easily replaceable, OPS actively encourages its staff to pursue apprenticeships. By upskilling its workforce, OPS creates a valuable local resource, eliminating the need for employees to relocate for qualifications.” OPS currently employs 12 apprentices specialising in drain laying, water technicians, plumbing, and gas fitting, at various stages of their apprenticeships. Nurturing a skilled local workforce enables OPS to undertake local projects using local talent. The company also provides career opportunities in civil construction through the Connexis training program. “OPS’ unwavering dedication to investing in trainees and career pathways has not only nurtured a skilled local workforce but has also positioned the company as a key player in the civil construction industry.”One notable employee, who has been with OPS for over two two and a half years, has already obtained his wheels, tracks, and rollers qualification and is currently working towards acquiring truck licenses, starting with a Class 4 license and progressing towards a trailer license. “This employee exemplifies the growth opportunities available within OPS, with potential for acquiring additional licenses such as Dangerous Goods. He is currently assigned to a pipeline site, operating various machinery ranging from 2.5-ton to 20-ton diggers. Investing in staff development is integral to OPS growth and continued success.” The company’s qualified employees have the opportunity to enhance their skills and diversify into complementary areas. For instance, the company’s operations manager, who has qualifications in plumbing, drain laying, and gas fitting, utilises his hands-on experience to contribute to project management and other relevant domains. “In addition to external training providers, OPS leverages the expertise of its highly experienced staff to facilitate knowledge transfer to less experienced workers, ensuring the development of a well-rounded workforce.” While OPS continues to undertake offshore work, the company is also exploring opportunities to contribute to renewable energy initiatives within Taranaki. This includes potential involvement in offshore wind or wave generation and the establishment of solar farms, aligning with the region’s sustainable development goals. Among its ongoing projects, OPS is actively engaged in the New Plymouth District Council 3 Waters Initiative, focusing on metering all water supplies within the District. This initiative involves preparing 29,000 water connections to ensure they are meter-ready, highlighting OPS commitment to driving essential infrastructure developments in the region. In recognition of its expertise and commitment to delivering high-quality workmanship, OPS is a panel member of NPDC’s 3 waters reticulation renewals panel construction contract.
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