Richard Gaunavou hails from the Lau (Cicia, Lomaji) island and joined the Fiji Sugar Corporation Lautoka Mill as a Fitting and Machining Apprentice. He was then promoted to a Tradesman and later became a Foreman. In 2017, he joined the Fiji National University’s (FNU) National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) as an Apprenticeship Officer, monitoring, mentoring, and coaching young Apprentices. In 2022, he joined the Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations as a Higher Grade – Field Operations Technical Officer. Currently, he is the Trade Testing Officer at NTPC, Narere, in charge of mechanical trades, including Fitting & Machining, Welding, Pipe Fitter, and Plumber General.
Trade testing typically involves assessing practical skills, knowledge, and abilities related to a specific trade or occupation.
Trade testing ensures that evaluated candidates have acquired the necessary skills and competencies to perform effectively in their chosen field. Here are some key aspects and considerations related to trade testing:
1. Practical Skills Assessment:
Trade tests include a practical skills assessment to evaluate a candidate’s hands-on abilities. This involves performing tasks or projects relevant to the specific occupation. Beyond traditional exams, candidates must also complete practical projects or assignments that showcase their ability to apply knowledge and skills to real-world work scenarios.
2. Theory Knowledge Test:
In addition to practical skills, candidates are required to take a theory test. It assesses their understanding of theoretical concepts, safety procedures, and other relevant information related to the trade.
3. Performance Evaluation:
Candidates are typically evaluated on their overall performance during the trade test. This includes accuracy, efficiency, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols.
4. Use of Simulated Work Environments:
Some industries use simulated work environments or realistic scenarios to assess how well students can apply their skills in a setting that mirrors actual workplace conditions.
5. Industry Standards and Certifications:
Trade tests are aligned with industry standards and certifications. Candidates need to meet specific criteria to earn industry-recognized certifications. This is directed at increasing workplace efficiency and productivity, providing them with better wage rates and employment opportunities. This means that tradespeople continually have to refine and improve their skill sets based on industry changes and technological advancements.
6. Feedback and Improvement:
Trade tests provide valuable feedback to candidates, helping them understand their strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback can guide them to take up further training for skill enhancement and professional development.
7. Involvement of Industry Professionals:
These tests involve industry professionals in conducting assessments aligning with current industry practices and standards.
Benefits of Trade Testing
Trade testing, also known as skills testing or proficiency testing, refers to the assessment of an individual’s practical skills and abilities in a specific trade or profession. This type of testing is commonly used in various industries to evaluate the practical competence of job applicants or existing employees. There are several advantages associated with trade testing:
1. Accurate Skill Assessment:
Trade testing provides a hands-on evaluation of a person’s skills, offering a more accurate representation of their abilities compared to traditional methods of assessments. This is particularly crucial in professions where practical skills are essential to job performance.
2. Objective Evaluation:
Trade tests are designed to be objective and standardized. This helps ensure that each candidate is evaluated based on the same set of criteria, reducing biases in the assessment process.
3. Job Relevance:
Trade tests are designed to specific job requirements, ensuring that the skills being tested are directly relevant to the tasks and responsibilities associated with the position. This enhances the overall job fit and performance of the individuals being tested.
4. Efficiency in Recruitment:
Trade testing streamlines recruitment by quickly identifying individuals with the necessary skills for a particular job. This can save time and resources in the hiring process, as employers can focus on candidates who have demonstrated practical competence.
5. Training and Development Guidance:
For existing employees, trade testing can help identify areas where additional training or development may be needed. This information can be used to create targeted training programs, improving overall workforce competence.
6. Increased Job Satisfaction:
Job satisfaction increases when individuals are placed in roles that align with their skills and abilities. This can contribute to higher employee morale, productivity, and retention rates.
7. Risk Mitigation:
Trade testing helps mitigate the risk of hiring individuals who may lack the necessary practical skills for a job. Employers reduce the likelihood of poor job performance and potential safety concerns by ensuring that candidates possess the required competencies.
8. Client and Customer Confidence:
In industries where client or customer satisfaction is crucial, having a skilled workforce can enhance the reputation of a business. Trade testing helps ensure employees can deliver quality services, building trust with clients and customers.
Trade testing plays a vital role in evaluating and ensuring individuals’ practical skills and competencies in various professions. This process benefits employers and employees by facilitating accurate assessments, improving job fit, and improving overall workforce efficiency and satisfaction.
The scheme offers skills assessment and certification in 29 various trades and is highly recognized nationally.
Over 30000 tradespeople have taken the opportunity to get themselves assessed, and we encourage other tradespeople to take up this opportunity.
For more information or queries on NTPC short courses, email info.ntpc@fnu.ac.fj
By: Richard Mark Gaunavou
- Richard Mark Gaunavou is the Trade Testing Officer – Mechanical at the Department of National Apprenticeship Training and Trade Testing of the National Training and Productivity Centre at the Fiji National University.
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