Hanga-Aro-Rau continues its work with the Commercial Transport Industry to develop three fit-for-purpose micro-credentials in Locomotive Refinishing, set to roll out this year This development is part of our ongoing commitment to our core mahi of qualification development, standard setting, quality assurance and programme endorsement – essential to ensure that qualifications are fit for today and the future.

“Historically, there’s been no formally recognised pathway for locomotive refinishing,” says Croydon Smith, Industry Manager at Hanga-Aro-Rau. “Staff can only progress so far without a Level 4 qualification, leading to retention issues. These micro-credentials serve as a stepping stone to Level 4.”

The need for these qualifications was first identified in 2023 by stakeholders from KiwiRail, Smart Trade Solutions, and Resene. Rick Lunn, Director of Smart Trade Solutions, was instrumental in their development. “I’ve worked in vocational education for over 25 years, supporting training and transition pathways in industries like collision repair and engineering. When a friend at Resene invited me to discuss locomotive refinishing, it became clear there were no existing qualifications available.”

Russell Green, Southern Central Manager at Resene, recalls how the conversation started. “KiwiRail had lost about 10 painters in a year due to the lack of a progression pathway. That got us thinking. We reached out to Smart Trade Solutions, and things took off from there.”

For KiwiRail, the high turnover in their paint shop highlighted the issue. “It’s a physically demanding job,” says Acting Production Manager Calem Sua. “We need qualifications to recognise their efforts and provide a clear career path.” Paint Shop Team Leader Peter Peteru adds, “We’ve been pushing for this for 15 years. Now, we want to see these micro-credentials used nationwide, not just at KiwiRail.”

The working group collaborated closely to ensure the new qualifications met industry needs. “We set up photos and scenarios within our paint shop to help Rick understand what we do,” Calem explains. “Hanga-Aro-Rau then took over as the driver, and with Croydon’s support, we made it official.”

Jessamine Jackson, Qualifications Developer at Hanga-Aro-Rau, led the approval process with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). “With industry demonstrating a clear need, we formalised the request. The result is three approved qualifications: Paint Preparation, Painting Plastics, and Applying Adhesive Graphics; Prepare, Fill and Prime; and Paint Technology and Application. These steps follow a logical learning progression.”

She also highlights the transferability of these skills. “Locomotive refinishing isn’t that different from automotive work. KiwiRail staff were doing similar tasks but lacked formal recognition because the industry is niche.”

Rick Lunn hopes these micro-credentials will encourage further study and benefit communities. “Upskilling helps communities thrive. At a basic level, these micro-credentials provide recognition and show employees they are valued. Hopefully, this is just the first step in a larger initiative.”

Russell Green also says, “This could evolve into a wider qualification for all industrial businesses looking to acknowledge their apprentices. We now see the potential for a nationally or internationally recognised Level 4 qualification.”

The development process has been inspiring and well-supported by Hanga-Aro-Rau, Rick says. “Croydon and his team have been responsive throughout. It’s been great to work alongside passionate, like-minded people.” Calem agrees. “Everyone in the working group brings relevant expertise.” Peter Peteru adds, “From the start, this has been a great collaboration. I look forward to the challenges ahead.”

The expectation is that these new qualifications will be ready for delivery this year. “The next step is to develop Level 4,” says Croydon, “which will extend beyond rail to heavy vehicles like big trucks and offroad equipment.” KiwiRail is prepared to present another business case for this expansion. “We’ve had strong support from our general manager and trade union leaders,” Calem says. “Having these micro-credentials live on NZQA is a major milestone. Now, we push ahead toward Level 4.”

Rick Lunn reflects on the journey so far. “We’ve built a team where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. With Weltec on board for delivery, we can provide training and pastoral care to support learners. I feel privileged to be part of this, and the more we do, the more people and communities will benefit.”