Strong demand for glass processors
There is strong demand for glass processors due to a shortage of both apprentices and skilled workers. The glass processing and glazing sector needs to recruit double the current number of apprentices each year, around 95 more people. More skilled workers are needed to replace an aging workforce – almost a third are 50 years or older.
Demand for glass processors is expected to continue growing due to:
- an all-time high demand for new homes and other builds
- Building Code changes to insulation, security and safety requirements means many new buildings require double-glazing and balustrades
- high demand for new and replacement glass for building renovations
- glass products such as double glazing, toughened glass and laminated glass increasingly being an integral part of the architectural design of buildings.
According to the Census, 657 glass processors worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Impact of new technology on glass processing skills
Rapid new technology development is transforming the range of glass processors’ skills and the way they work. This includes computerisation within processing plants, such as using computer aided design (CAD) and computer numerical controlled (CNC) machines that cut glass to the size and shape the customer requires.
More specialised processes such as screen printing technology are increasingly used for decorating glass in homes.
Range of skills increase chances of securing an apprenticeship
You can increase your chances of getting a glass processing apprenticeship by:
- showing initiative
- being a team player
- being aware of health and safety issues
- demonstrating creative skills.
More glass processing work in major cities
Most glass processors work for large glass processing companies in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Tauranga.
