Adrian Dunn

“I’m teaching Level 3 Carpentry, which is the course I took to kick start my building career, a career that has taken me all over the world.”

Originally from Sanson, Adrian fell in love with building at a young age and always knew that a hands-on career would be the right fit for him.

“I’ve never been one for sitting at a desk.  Growing up on my parent’s farm, I was always outside, so when I finished school at Palmerston North Boys’ High School, I decided to study here at UCOL.  After that I gained an apprenticeship through a local business, and since then I’ve been across the globe doing what I love.”

Adrian spent time in England building boats and travelled on to explore parts of Europe, Asia and Africa.

“Building saw me earning enough to be able to travel, especially with taking up jobs in other countries.  It’s a skill that is recognized world-wide so you can bet it will help you to see the world.”

Adrian took on his first lecturing role here at UCOL in 2019 and loves working with students to help them achieve their goals and see the possibilities that can come from earning while you learn.

“I did the equivalent course to what I am now teaching back at the start of my career and it has set me up for success.  Now I get to share that with my students.  It’s great to see how this course has developed and grown over the years as the industry changes.  My advice to students looking at a carpentry career would be that if you’re a hands-on learner, then this is a great environment to be in.  It sees you gaining real life experience and practical skills as well as building friendships in a supportive environment.”