Graduates who have completed study while working to improve or gain new skills were this week recognised for their accomplishments at the Ashburton District Industry Training Organisation Awards.

Thirteen graduates had their certificates presented by Mayor Neil Brown at a special ceremony in the event space at Te Whare Whakatere. Some 200 more in the wider district have also been involved in industry study.

This year's graduates gained certificates across a range of industries including health and wellbeing, health care, retail, distribution, livestock production, dairy farming, automotive engineering and rural services.

The awards are supported through New Zealand Industry Training Organisations, local businesses, the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs Initiative and the Ashburton District Council.

Mayor Brown told the graduates it was a challenge to hold down a fulltime job and study, though the rewards were worth it.

"You have all been studying and working to improve your existing skills or gain new ones and you are making positive contributions to our district and the businesses that encourage and support you.

"Having a skilled workforce is important and it is never too late to upskill in your area of expertise or take on a new skill.”

Mayor Brown also thanked employers and sponsors who encouraged their staff to continue their training and further development.

Learn more about the Mayors Taskforce For Jobs initiative here.