Shaun Gear
Project Consultant, ConCOVE Tūhura
I bring a grounded perspective to my work in connecting education and industry, focused on creating pathways for learners that are relevant, inclusive, and future-focused.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked across vocational education, work-based learning, and industry partnerships, always striving to align education with the evolving needs of the workforce. I’ve led innovative projects, developed strategies for bridging gaps between education and industry, and contributed to initiatives that enable learners and organisations to grow together.
What excites me most about ConCOVE is the opportunity to break down barriers and create scalable solutions that benefit not just individuals, but entire industries. I’m passionate about empowering people and fostering collaboration to ensure that education systems deliver real opportunities for learners and whānau.
If you’d like to kōrero or collaborate, I’d love to connect via email or LinkedIn.
10:35 am
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11:15 am
Galaxy Ballroom 1
From Research to Real-World Impact: Strengthening Vocational Education Through People-Centred Tools
This workshop will take participants inside the creation and future of two national sector tools the Training Advisor Competency and Capability Framework and the Provider-Based Kaiako Onboarding Toolkit. Born from in-depth research with Training Advisors, Kaiako, employers, and learners, these tools are built for the people who guide vocational learners every day. We’ll explore the voices and experiences that shaped the design, share practical examples of how they can be embedded in real-world contexts, and discuss their role in lifting capability, consistency, and learner success across Aotearoa. With ConCOVE winding up at the end of 2025, ITENZ will take stewardship of these tools, ensuring they remain relevant, accessible, and sector owned. Together, we’ll identify what’s next for providers, employers, and industry to keep this momentum alive. This is a collaborative session you’ll leave with new insights, practical ideas, and the opportunity to shape how these resources can serve our sector into the future.