Maria’s passion for plumbing

“Straight away I felt like I was in my zone. I was enjoying it. It made me feel happy like I knew it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”

These are Maria Contreras Huerta reflections on her plumbing placement through the Gateway Programme at Morrinsville College.

A few years on and the second-year MasterLink trainee working at Morrinsville Plumbing and Gas Services is looking forward to participating in the WorldSkills New Zealand Nationals.

Maria is never put off by a challenge. “My dad has been a big influence in my approach to life. He always encourages me to do different things and not to feel like I need to follow anyone else. He has really inspired me to be different, be unique and own it.”
Her advice for a vocational career or competing in a skills challenge is one and the same. “If you have a passion for something, just do it, challenge yourself and give it your all. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”

Armed with her multi-crescent, Maria is prepared for anything the day brings. “I am not the strongest lady there is, but with a multi-crescent I can do it! I have recently started going to jobs on my own. It feels good to solve my customer’s problems and the smiles on their faces makes the job even better.”

After completing her apprenticeship, Maria is keen to open her own plumbing, drainlaying and gas fitting business. “I want to give job opportunities to people who need it and show them that they can do this too. There are possibilities.”