A new apprenticeship training programme focusing on heavy vehicle and trailer wheel alignment has been launched by MITO. 
The New Zealand Certificate in Heavy Wheel Alignment (Level 4) provides the necessary knowledge and skills required to carry out alignments – and offers a formal qualification for individuals working in this important sector of the industry.
The training programme has been developed in collaboration with the industry to ensure it meets its specific training requirements. 
John Bates, founder of the NZ Heavy Transport Wheel Aligners Association, says: "It is critical that our sector has a training programme that specifies the exact procedures that should be adhered to and ensures that there is a gold standard we all work to.
"We're delighted that MITO has developed a training programme that does just that. It provides learning outcomes responding to health, safety and technical issues to ensure we have productive and safe workplaces. 
"Outcomes also, importantly, cover diagnostic procedures in steering, suspension, braking, driveline, hydraulics, electrical and electronic systems."
MITO chief executive Janet Lane says: "It is really exciting that we can respond to the education and training needs of the industry sectors we represent through robust programme design and innovative delivery, as well as managing the ongoing pastoral care of each apprentice. 
"Working together, we are equally committed to workforce development strategies that futureproof these individual sectors."
The 20-month programme includes both practical training in the workplace and eLearning – the latter "a fantastic tool," in Bates' opinion.
"It provides technicians with the ability to complete theory elements in their own time using a mobile phone, tablet or computer. Combined with hands-on practical training in the workplace, this blended learning approach offers the best of both worlds."
Bates says that the partnership between industry and MITO to develop this programme "reinforces MITO's enduring commitment to support our sector. We now look forward to attracting the next generation of talent to our industry!"
Enrolment information for MITO's Heavy Wheel Alignment training programme is available online at mito.nz/heavywheel