Commitment, curiosity and courage earn national recognition for New Zealand’s top fire apprentices

Hamilton-based Fire Technician Jithin Jose of Simply Fire Ltd has been named New Zealand Fire Learner of the Year 2024, recognised at the FPANZ Conference Awards Dinner in Auckland last week. Caitlyn O’Neale, Service Supervisor with Alliance Fire & Security Ltd in the Wairarapa, was named runner-up from a strong field of seven national finalists.

For Jithin, learning isn’t about certificates on a wall — it’s about sharing knowledge and helping others grow. “Knowledge isn’t meant to stop with one person – it has to be transferred. If I learn something, I want to share it with the next person,” he says. That belief has guided his career and underpinned his success.

Originally from Mangalore, India, Jithin spent more than a decade working in the Middle East’s oil and gas sector, leading multinational engineering teams on complex projects across Kuwait, Bahrain, Russia and Singapore. After moving to New Zealand in 2014 to build a life for his young family, he found himself starting again – facing language barriers and the challenge of re-establishing a career from the ground up.

Now based in Nawton, Hamilton, Jithin works for Simply Fire in Frankton and has completed both the New Zealand Certificate in Fire Protection (Level 3) and the New Zealand Certificate in Fire Detection and Alarm Systems (Level 4). He is now advancing to the New Zealand Certificate in Fire Systems Technology (Level 4).

Despite English being his second language, Jithin has consistently completed his studies ahead of schedule while also mentoring the four apprentices who have since joined the Simply Fire team. “When we teach someone new, it strengthens what we already know. That’s why I support our apprentices. Learning never ends – for me or for them,” he says.

Simply Fire General Manager, Lindsay Duffy, says Jithin’s calm confidence brings out the best in everyone. “His time is precious, yet he continues to achieve and deliver ahead of schedule. He mentors our trainees and leads by example – humble, reliable, and deeply respected.”

Competenz Training Advisor Steve Maudlin says Jithin’s commitment has been exceptional.

“An outstanding learner, always ahead of time and always delivering more than was asked. If I had a portfolio full of learners with Jithin’s work ethic, I’d have the easiest job in Competenz.”

Jithin says he’s simply grateful for the chance to keep learning.

“I came to New Zealand with experience, but I had to start again and prove myself. Every qualification reminds me that hard work and humility still matter, no matter where you begin.”

For Jithin, the next goal is to return to a leadership role – to guide others and to multiply the impact of his learning. “In my previous job I managed teams and projects across countries. I miss that connection – helping people grow. Every day I try to get one percent better so that one day I can help others do the same.”

Runner-up Caitlyn O’Neale, 24, has taken a completely different path – one that began behind the shelves of a supermarket. When she interviewed for her first role at Alliance Fire & Security, she admits she had no idea what the fire protection industry involved. “The day before my interview, I watched YouTube videos about installing sprinkler systems – something I’ve never actually done in this job!” she laughs.

Just five years later, the Carterton local is the Wairarapa Service Supervisor, managing inspection and maintenance schedules for some of the region’s most complex sites. Alliance Fire & Security is based in Lower Hutt, but Caitlyn is proudly Wairarapa-based – committed to her hometown and helping local industry thrive. She has completed the New Zealand Certificate in Fire Detection & Alarm Systems (Level 4) and is now studying toward the New Zealand Certificate in Passive Fire Protection Systems – Routine Compliance Inspections (Level 4)

Her Training Advisor Malcolm Pearce describes her as “an awesome apprentice – hungry to learn and improve.” Caitlyn’s path has been underscored by curiosity and grit. She credits her success to supportive mentors at work and her own disciplined approach to work and study. Balancing a full-time job, volunteer firefighting and a love of music – she performs regular solo gigs – she has completed every assignment on time. “I separate work and life carefully. Evenings are for study, weekends are for family and the brigade. It’s about respecting every part of your life and giving it your full attention,” she says.

She’s also found a new passion in customer relationships and sales, enjoying the human side of technical work. “I love connecting with people, understanding their needs and frustrations, and finding ways to help. That’s what motivates me.”

Alliance Managing Director Kerry White says Caitlyn is a standout. “She’s calm, methodical, and dependable – already operating beyond her years of experience. She embodies our company values and has the potential to be a great leader.” Caitlyn sees her future firmly in the Wairarapa. “I want to see Alliance grow – and I want to help the Wairarapa grow too. This region is my home, and I’m proud to build something here.”

The Fire Learner of the Year Award celebrates excellence across New Zealand’s fire protection industry – recognising learners who combine technical skill, determination, and the drive to lift others.

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