The New Zealand Master Concrete Placers Association (NZMCPA) is an industry association dedicated to meeting the needs of those involved with concrete contracting, with a focus on the placing and finishing of concrete.
The association works on behalf of its members by advocating their views in relation to issues such as training, qualifications and health and safety, as well as being a point of contact for other concrete industry associations on matters related to placing and finishing.
It currently has combined membership of around 80, with the majority based in the greater Auckland region, and the balance spread throughout New Zealand.
Although the core work undertaken by NZMCPA members is the placing and finishing of concrete, some members also offer a range of concrete contracting services from site excavation, formwork design and preparation, to decorative finishes such as coloured, stained or stamped concrete, control joint lay-out, and application of proprietary sealers.
While some NZMCPA Members work on large commercial jobs, the majority focus on residential projects.
To be accepted as a Member of the NZMCPA a high standard of knowledge and practical experience has to be demonstrated, both in terms of workmanship and business acumen.
“By virtue of their decision to join an industry association NZMCPA members demonstrate a desire for self-improvement and a commitment to excellence. Having access to an array of resources – from fellow concrete contractors and material suppliers through to ‘good practice’ advice, business assistance and regulatory updates, helps NZMCPA members to better meet the expectations of their customers,” says Brad.
The NZMCPA also has a number of associate members who offer their continued support for the association and the work it undertakes. Associate members include other concrete industry associations, ready mixed concrete companies, and suppliers to the industry of things like admixtures, colour pigments and concrete tools and products.
Brad says NZMCPA members have a Code of Conduct. This means customers can expect a professional approach to be maintained throughout the duration of the job – from initial consultation through to completion.
“A key aspect of this process is preserving good communication from the very beginning to ensure an outcome that meets the customer’s expectations.”
NZMCPA has established a close working relationship with the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO). Members of the NZMCPA Board sit on the BCITO Concrete National Advisory Group, and have input into how the BCITO’s range of concrete qualifications, including National Certificates, are structured and offered.
“A particularly important development was the recent launch of the BCITO Workforce Development Plans for 17 construction industry sectors, including ‘Concreting’.
This project aims to support construction industry businesses and employers to develop a workforce that has the capability and capacity to meet current and future needs. The NZMCPA was pleased to have been involved,” he says.
The NZMCPA actively encourages its Members to enrol their staff into a BCITO qualification.
To find out more about the New Zealand Master Concrete Placers Association (NZMCPA) visit the website www.mcpa.org.nz
