Full Name: Craig Brown

Job Title: Kaiako – Electrical Trainer

Years of Experience in Vocational Education:

14 Years & over 35years industry experience

Certifications & Qualifications:

• Mita Capstone Assessor
• Moderation Assessor – Unit Standard 11551 Version 7
• Level 5 National Diploma Construction Management
• Level 4 National Certificate Adult Education & Training
• Train the Trainer Course
• Levels 2, 3 & 4 National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Line Mechanic Distribution
• Level 3 Utility Arborist Qualification
• Integrity Incident Investigation Training
• Management Development Programme
• Situational Leadership Training
• Engineering Cadetship programme

What courses or programs do you specialize in?

• Line Mechanics Levels 2 to 4
• Leadership / Supervision
• Distribution / Transmission Utility Arboriculture
• Distribution Network Competencies & Refreshers
• Industry Auditing

What inspired you to become a trainer?

With an extensive background in power distribution, my transition into training was driven by a commitment to strengthening industry standards and developing capable, safety-focused professionals. For several years ai held leadership roles managing teams in high-risk operational environments, I recognised the importance of structured competency development, accountability, and technical precision. Training provides an opportunity to transfer that experience in a way that supports both individual growth and organisational performance.

What do you love most about training and teaching?

What I value most about training is the progression of learners — observing the development of technical understanding, confidence, and professional responsibility. Effective training is not solely about knowledge transfer, it is about fostering a culture of safety, compliance, and critical thinking that carries through to the worksite.

Do you have a favourite quote or piece of advice that guides you? 

“Train to the standard you expect in the field”
A trainee’s competency must reflect real world expectations. This includes preparation, adherence to safety requirements, correct use of resources, and consistent application of industry best practice.

When you’re not training, what hobbies or interests do you enjoy?

Outside of the training environment, I like spending quality time with whanau and friends, engaging with all kinds of sport, sharing good food and travel experiences.

What’s the best piece of career advice you give to students?

Take ownership of your professional standard – Preparation, compliant equipment, and a proactive safety mindset are non-negotiable in this industry. Technical skill is essential, safety for you and those around you is mandatory and long-term success is built on reliability, accountability, and continuous improvement.