[Kevin Ihaka - Muka Tangata Workforce Development Council] A lot of people don't realize just how skilled you need to be in forestry. There's a lot  of skills that we need to have in terms of making sure that we get a great forest.

[Fraser Field - Rayonier Matariki Forests] We now have a greater need for technical skills, we also have a greater need for leadership.

[Kevin] As our industry is evolving we need to make sure we've got great career pathways for people and that the training that they need and want is readily available.

[Fraser] Workforce Development Councils have the responsibility of setting the standards and leading the industry. They've consulted with us about what should we be teaching to get the exact details of the qualifications bang on.

[Melissa Lee Smith - Muka Tangata Workforce Development Council] The Workforce Development Council has developed a new approach to learner pathways which is a clear focus on the learner. What we develop are micro credentials, bite sized, more palatable forms of education that they can do in work-based learning.

[Kevin] No matter what role you're in you're able to build up that qualification with the skills that are relevant to you.

[Melissa] The qualification that we've just put through is the level 5 leadership qualification for forestry. It will be posted on the New Zealand Qualification Framework. The providers will be able to pick it up from there and build the programmes.  

[Kevin] We've now got the great qualification that's a result of a lot of industry collaboration.

[Fraser] It's training that suited the learner and training that suited the requirements of the employers. It's been excellent.  

[Kevin] We've got an opportunity to shape the future of training and I would encourage all employers to get on board and have your input because this is your industry and you need to shape it. [Music]