Being on crutches hasn’t stopped Tom MacKinnon working; in fact it’s had a big influence on his decision to move up the career ladder.

Tom, who works for Auckland heavy haulage specialist Smith and Davies Ltd, is one of 10 recipients of a prestigious MITO business skills scholarship. His success is enabling him to complete MITO’s first line management programme – a one-year course designed especially for people keen to advance to supervisor roles.
A fourth-generation member of the Smith & Davies team, Tom always planned to join the family business, and has completed his National Certificate in automotive electrical engineering through MITO.
Tom heard about the scholarship after being diagnosed with a serious hip condition, which has had him on crutches for the past year. Unable to return to his role as a qualified automotive electrician, he’s been helping out in the Smith & Davies office. “A career in management had crossed my mind before, so I saw the scholarship as an opportunity to make the first move,” he says.
The 26-year-old started the first line management programme about six months ago and he says he’s finding it challenging and interesting. “I’m learning a lot about the skills you need to be a manager, how to deal with people, and how to manage change,” says Tom.
Smith and Davies group compliance manager Raywin Head, says Tom flew through his apprenticeship and he also took the initiative to set up a new IT system for the workshop. “Tom’s always had management potential: he’s fair and reasonable, understands the bigger picture, inspires people to do well and is great at supporting people through change,” says Raywin.
Tom believes that formal training is one of the keys to achieving his goal of being a proactive, people-focused leader.  “I’m gaining skills that I might not have learned on the job, and some new approaches that might make a difference for the business.”
Contact MITO to get ahead with your career. Find out more about MITO’s workplace training programmes and apprenticeships. Freephone 0800 88 21 21 or visit www.mito.org.nz