JESS NAILS THE PRIZE

The young tradie can also put out fires should the need arise!

- Kasia De Vydt-Jillings

As Apprentice of the Year finalist Jess Nielsen answers the phone for her interview with the Weekly, the background is filled with construction noises.

“Hold on, I’ll just get off the roof,” says Jess, 22, who recently won third place at the annual competition, making her the first woman to ever place.

Back down on the ground, the Wānaka-based builder shares she was excitedly surprised by her result and what it means for other women in the industry. 

“I had no idea I would do so well,” tells Jess. “I enter everything with the best intentions, otherwise there’s no point, but I was just giving it a go, wanting to see how I compared.

“At the Waikato regional competition finals, after they’d called out third and second place, my dad turned to me and said, ‘At least you tried.’ Then they announced me as first!”

The nationwide event sees apprentices’ theory and practical skills tested as they’re challenged to build a project with just enough materials and limited plans. Competitors also have to submit a portfolio and undergo a robust interview.  

Jess is hopeful her impressive results will show other women just how much potential they have. 

“I want them to see it’s achievable and know if I can do it, they can too. It’s not loaded towards guys – chicks are just as good.”