That achievement came much earlier than the normal duration of six months.

Kyle’s supervisor Steve Partridge said they were so impressed with Kyle and he was a great fit to the Birdon team.

“He has the right attitude, is a good listener and a quick learner,” Mr Partridge said.

“I usually only need to show him something once.”

Mr Partridge, who has been with Birdon for eight years, will work directly with Kyle for his first year.

“After that he may move into different facets of the business,” he said.

“At the moment we are building parts for boats and Kyle is learning how to weld.”

Kyle was keen to find himself a career after finishing his schooling and approached ETC for help with an apprenticeship.

“This was the first one I applied for and I got it straight away,” Kyle said.

“I was pretty lucky.

“I was stoked when I found out I got the job.

“I couldn’t stop smiling. My family and friends were ecstatic for me too.”

Kyle said he felt accepted straight away when he joined the Birdon team.

“The team here is great, always happy and laughing,” he said.

“I’m keen to finish my apprenticeship with Birdon and become a full-time boiler maker.”

According to Birdon quality, environmental and safety manager Stephen Prohm, Kyle had impressed on all fronts.

“He is a great success story for Birdon already,” Mr Prohm said.

“We pride ourselves in giving opportunities for local youth who want a successful career.”

Mr Prohm said time was at a premium for the company so they utilised Transition to Work provider ETC to help with recruitment needs.

Kyle also thanked ETC for helping him with his resume and finding his apprenticeship.

Birdon is a diversified marine engineering group.

ETC provides employment, business and training services in the Hastings.