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NMIT strengthens workplace learning for Marlborough's wine industry
Accessing industry training is becoming easier for Marlborough wine and viticulture businesses, with NMIT appointing Tom van der Burgh as Work Integrated Viticulture Tutor.
The newly created role strengthens NMIT's commitment to workplace learning, giving employers greater flexibility to upskill their teams through training delivered both onsite and on campus.
Based at NMIT's Marlborough campus, home to the New Zealand Wine Centre, Tom will work alongside learners, employers and industry partners to deliver practical, work integrated education that responds to the needs of one of New Zealand's most significant export industries.
Training where industry needs it
A key part of Tom's role is taking learning into the workplace. He will work directly with vineyards and wineries to deliver training onsite, helping staff develop new skills without stepping away from the workplace for extended periods.
At the same time, learners and employers can access the specialist facilities, teaching expertise and industry-leading research environment available at NMIT's Marlborough Campus. The New Zealand Wine Centre brings together education, research and industry, with organisations including Bragato Research Institute and Plant & Food Research working alongside NMIT to support innovation across the sector.
"I'm incredibly proud to be back at NMIT," says Tom. "This is where my own career in viticulture began, so it's a privilege to now support others with their journey."
“Marlborough has a globally-recognised wine industry, and I'm excited to work alongside employers and students to create meaningful learning experiences that lead directly into employment.”
Returning to where his career began
For Tom, joining NMIT is a full-circle moment. After moving to Marlborough in 2000 to pursue a lifelong passion for wine, he graduated from NMIT with a Merit Diploma in Viticulture and Wine Production in 2001. More than 20 years later, he has returned to help prepare the next generation of vineyard professionals.
Tom brings extensive industry experience, having spent 21 years working in Marlborough's wine industry, including 18 years in vineyard management. Most recently, he was a Marlborough-based Training Advisor for Horticulture Production (Wine Growing) with Primary ITO, where he worked closely with employers and learners to develop the industry's future workforce.
Building pathways for the future
Tom's appointment comes as NMIT expands its wine and viticulture offering, developing programmes in partnership with industry and creating clearer pathways from entry-level training through to higher-level study and employment.
Together, these developments support NMIT’s role as a trusted partner to Marlborough’s wine industry, offering flexible study options that help employers strengthen workforce capability and support more people into rewarding careers.
