Capable NZ Construction graduate Eteniu (Eddie) Lemana says it’s never too late to dream and motivate yourself to learn new things.

The 59-year-old received two job offers shortly after completing his New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Level 6) (Construction Management) with us this July.

Eddie decided to enrol with Capable NZ because it would allow him to have his past experience recognised and gain a qualification in a relatively short time.

He liked that all of his study could be done remotely and appreciated the level of support he received.

“I felt that my assessor was a great support and was always in communication to ensure I was okay and I was keeping up with my assignments, which I achieved in the timeframe I was given.”

His diploma met the Regulation 18 requirement, which ensures that anyone carrying out technical building control work holds an appropriate technical qualification. This helped Eddie to receive a number of job offers.

Shortly after Eddie commenced his study in August 2024, he was offered a position as a Project Manager with a developer.

After he graduated in July 2025 with an A- grade, he applied for two positions with two district councils and was offered both. He accepted a position with Kāpiti Coast District Council and now works as a Building Officer there.

“My new position with the Kāpiti Coast District Council is the result of my studies,” says Eddie.

Eddie says his study experience gave him confidence to pursue different avenues within his industry.

“It’s also given me more confidence in what I am capable of achieving as an older student.”

He says studying with Capable NZ is a great opportunity for people to pursue new challenges in the later years of their professional careers.

“Do not let age or inexperience get in the way of what you want to accomplish. It’s never too late to dream and motivate yourself to learn new ideas and be successful. You can definitely teach an old dog new tricks.”

Eddie now looks forward to studying the full extent of construction legislation and the Building Act, as well as exploring ways to develop more effective construction methodologies for alternative building solutions.