Life experience gained from a varied career is just what’s needed from our Apprenticeship Scheme Manager, so Gary Brady is the perfect fit for the role. Having worked in agriculture for a large portion of his career, including tutoring ag in school with Primary ITO, those rangatahi that are lucky enough to be selected for the Apprenticeship Scheme, will be in good hands.
Gary’s career path has been varied – he started out in the ag sector working for contractors and as a shepherd, moved into the earthworks industry, then Security and Emergency Response work in New Zealand and Australia, before returning to New Zealand to really kickstart his career in the ag sector.
The Apprenticeship Scheme will be based at Aratiatia Farm in the Central North Island, a familiar place for Gary as he spent time there as a Head Shepherd around 20 years ago. “Driving into the Aratiatia car park as the new Apprenticeship Scheme Manager was a great feeling. I left there 20 years ago to take up my first farm managing role in Hawke’s Bay – time sure does fly.”
Why the ag sector?
Gary grew up moving around a lot, his parents worked in the hydro schemes in the South Island. His older brother left school and went farming so Gary spent the school holidays working with him, gaining experience in the industry. “I was drawn to the ag sector because no two days are the same and I enjoyed the problem-solving aspect. Most days it’s up to you to sort it, there’s no one to call.”
It's fair to say that throughout Gary’s career, he’s faced his share of problems to solve. Gary likes to be bold, “I'd like to think I think outside the box. Looking for a different approach and being flexible is what brought me to Pāmu.”
Gary’s work with young people and his love of the industry also drew him to the role.
“I get a lot of satisfaction watching young people grow in confidence. Seeing them grow and become productive community members. But also, being able to be a sounding board for them and assist them to problem solve.”
“I’m driven by wanting to make a difference in the way we train our young people, by showing them practical and hands-on skills that promote confidence and self-belief.”
Farming excellence is a high priority for Pāmu, and despite not being here for long, Gary already knows what it means to him. “We're not here forever so farming excellence to me is utilising the land but with the utmost respect, therefore leaving it in a state that the next generation can enjoy and benefit from and in turn pass on.”
From January 2025, nine lucky apprentices will be under Gary’s wing. They’ll have the opportunity to learn from someone who has ample experience and a passion for passing that on. At Pāmu, we know that having the right people is key to our success, so the addition of Gary to the team is exciting. Our apprentices will be in good hands.
