TPP Celebrates Automotive Excellence with Doug Thomson Award and TDX
Tai Poutini Polytechnic (TPP) is proud to announce that 2025 Automotive graduate Jake Kendrick has been awarded the prestigious Doug Thomson Award, recognising his outstanding achievement, commitment, and potential within the automotive industry.
Jake is now employed at TDX, joining a strong legacy of TPP graduates who have successfully transitioned into industry roles. Among his colleagues are former TPP students Ben Robbins, who graduated in 2008, and Brody Martyn-Frewin, a 2020 graduate. Notably, both Ben and Brody were also recipients of this special award during their time at TPP, highlighting the award’s longstanding connection to excellence in the programme.
Brody began his apprenticeship immediately after graduating and has since become a fully qualified heavy diesel mechanic. He is now taking the next step in his career by beginning an auto electrician apprenticeship. Reflecting on his journey, Brody shared, “The TPP programme was really good – I learnt a lot. If I hadn’t done the programme, I don’t think I would have been looked at. It gave me the experience I needed and set me up for where I am now.”
Jake, who graduated in 2025, is at the beginning of his own apprenticeship journey and is already making a strong impression. “It’s really cool working at TDX,” he said. “I learnt things on the programme that I use every day in my job.”
Jake first connected with TDX through a work placement in 2025. His dedication, reliability, and work ethic stood out to the team, and Service Manager Dan Watson offered him the opportunity to pursue an apprenticeship, conditional on successfully completing the programme.
Dan Watson also highlighted the value of programmes like TPP for employers. He noted that it is highly beneficial to bring on apprentices who are not completely new to the industry. Having some prior experience allows them to step into the workplace with greater confidence and capability, and when opportunities arise, they are able to put their best foot forward.
In addition, TDX has extended this same opportunity to a current TPP Automotive student, offering the potential for an apprenticeship upon successful completion of the programme this year. This further demonstrates the confidence industry has in TPP students and the strength of the training provided.
“These pathways highlight the importance of students being fully engaged and committed in their training. Consistent attendance and a positive attitude give employers valuable insight into a student’s work ethic, while the hands-on skills developed during the programme ensure they are ready to take the next step in their career journey,” says Tutor Adrian Smith.
TPP extends its sincere thanks to Doug Thomson and other sponsors for their continued support of the TPP Automotive Programme. Strong partnerships with industry, including TDX, and the wider community play a vital role in creating meaningful opportunities for students and supporting their transition into employment.
