Carterton Apprentice Caitlyn O’Neale Earns National Fire Award

A young woman from Carterton has achieved national recognition in the fire protection industry. Caitlyn O’Neale, representing Alliance Fire and Security, was named runner-up for the Fire Learner of the Year Award at the recent Fire Protection Association New Zealand conference. This event showcased a competitive field of seven finalists, with O’Neale’s accomplishment highlighting her rapid rise in the sector.

O’Neale, 24, began her career well outside the fire industry, working in a supermarket. Her transition to fire protection was marked by an eagerness to learn, even going so far as to watch YouTube videos on sprinkler system installations just before her interview at Alliance Fire and Security. “I had no idea what the fire protection industry involved,” she stated, reflecting on her initial uncertainty.

In just five years, O’Neale has progressed to managing inspection and maintenance schedules for some of the region’s most complex sites. Although Alliance Fire and Security operates out of Lower Hutt, O’Neale remains dedicated to her roots in Wairarapa, expressing a commitment to support local industry.

Commitment to Education and Community

O’Neale has completed the New Zealand Certificate in Fire Detection and Alarm Systems (Level 4) and is currently pursuing the New Zealand Certificate in Passive Fire Protection Systems – Routine Compliance Inspections (Level 4). Her training advisor, Malcolm Pearce, commended her dedication, describing her as “an awesome apprentice – hungry to learn and improve.”

Balancing her responsibilities is no small feat. In addition to her full-time job, O’Neale also volunteers as a firefighter and pursues her passion for music through regular solo performances. Despite her busy schedule, she maintains a disciplined approach to her studies. “I separate work and life carefully. Evenings are for study, weekends are for family and the brigade,” she explained.

O’Neale has also discovered a passion for building customer relationships, finding joy in understanding clients’ needs and frustrations. “I love connecting with people, understanding their needs, and finding ways to help. That’s what motivates me,” she added.

A Bright Future Ahead

Kerry White, managing director of Alliance Fire and Security, praised O’Neale’s contributions, noting, “She’s calm, methodical, and dependable – already operating beyond her years of experience.” He emphasized her alignment with the company’s values and her potential for future leadership roles.

Looking ahead, O’Neale is enthusiastic about her future in Wairarapa. “I want to see Alliance grow, and I want to help the Wairarapa grow too,” she stated. “This region is my home, and I’m proud to build something here.”

The Fire Learner of the Year Award celebrates excellence in New Zealand’s fire protection industry, recognizing individuals who demonstrate technical skills, determination, and the drive to uplift others. On October 8, 2024, Hamilton-based fire technician Jithin Jose from Simply Fire was named the overall New Zealand Fire Learner of the Year, further highlighting the exceptional talent emerging in the field.