Carterton’s Caitlyn O’Neale Shines at National Fire Awards

A young professional from Carterton has earned national recognition in the fire protection sector. Caitlyn O’Neale, 24, who works with 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 accolade highlights her achievements among a competitive field of seven finalists.

O’Neale’s journey into the fire protection industry began unexpectedly. Prior to her current role, she worked behind the shelves of a supermarket and had little knowledge of the fire sector. “The day before my interview, I watched YouTube videos about installing sprinkler systems – something I’ve never actually done in this job,” O’Neale recalled. Just five years into her career, she now manages complex inspection and maintenance schedules for significant sites in the region.

Commitment to Community and Professional Growth

Although Alliance Fire and Security is headquartered in Lower Hutt, O’Neale remains dedicated to her hometown in Wairarapa. She 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, praised her work ethic, describing her as “an awesome apprentice – hungry to learn and improve.”

O’Neale attributes her success to the support of her mentors and her disciplined approach to balancing work and education. In addition to her full-time job, she volunteers as a firefighter and enjoys music, regularly performing solo gigs. Despite her busy schedule, she consistently completes her assignments on time. “I separate work and life carefully. Evenings are for study, weekends are for family and the brigade,” she explained. “It’s about respecting every part of your life and giving it your full attention.”

A Future Focused on Wairarapa

In her role, O’Neale has developed a passion for customer relationships and sales, relishing the opportunity to connect with people and understand their needs. “I love connecting with people, understanding their needs and frustrations, and finding ways to help. That’s what motivates me,” she stated.

The managing director of Alliance Fire and Security, Kerry White, commended O’Neale’s capabilities, noting, “She’s calm, methodical, and dependable – already operating beyond her years of experience. She embodies our company values and has the potential to be a great leader.”

Looking to the future, O’Neale is committed to fostering growth in both her company and her community. “I want to see Alliance grow and I want to help the Wairarapa grow too,” she emphasized. “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, acknowledging individuals who demonstrate technical skill and determination while uplifting others. The top honor for New Zealand Fire Learner of the Year 2024 went to Jithin Jose of Simply Fire, announced on October 8, 2024.