From Apprentice to Achiever: Cameron Wright's Journey in Glass and Glazing

At just 28 years old, Cameron Wright has already carved out a path that many apprentices will find both relatable and inspiring. Hailing from Metroglass Christchurch, Cameron’s story is one of persistence, people, and personal growth—proof that you don’t need to follow a perfect plan to build a successful life and career. You just need to keep showing up, stay hungry, and back yourself.

A Life Built One Pane at a Time

Cameron left high school in 2014 not quite sure where the road would take him. In 2018, he took a leap and moved from Christchurch to Alexandra in Central Otago for a job with Metroglass Cromwell. He was 21 and ready to try something new. That step, he says, was the first big nudge toward finding a trade and lifestyle that fit.

By late 2019, Cameron was back in Christchurch, now working for Metroglass in his hometown. Then came a series of milestone years:

2020: Met his partner Georgia.

2021: Bought their first home together.

2022: Signed up for his glazing apprenticeship and was selected to join the Apprentice Leaders Programme.

2023: Got engaged, was named Most Promising Apprentice, and realised he had something real to offer the trade.

2024: Married Georgia and qualified as a tradesman.

He admits he didn’t always see himself as the “top of the class” type—school wasn’t easy. But his supervisor Tony changed that. “When I signed up for my apprenticeship, he asked me why. Then he said, ‘I got Most Promising Apprentice and the Allan Sage Award… I reckon you could get it too.’ That flicked a switch for me.”

What Makes a Good Glazier?

Cameron’s not just about ticking boxes—he’s about doing the job well.

“To be a good glazier, you’ve got to communicate well with people, whether it’s a customer or your team,” he says. “You’ve got to be able to work solo but also jump into a crew when needed. Problem-solving is a big part of it too—thinking ahead, planning your steps. It’s a physical job but it takes brainpower too.”

It’s that balance—between strength and smarts—that keeps him coming back every day.

Life Outside the Toolbox

Balancing work and life doesn’t come by accident. For Cameron, sport plays a massive role.

“Sport keeps me mentally and physically in check. Whether it's a training session or game night, having something to look forward to outside of work helps keep stress down. Lately, I’ve gotten into triathlons, so I train before and after work. It gives me structure and motivation.”

Career Steps That Stand Out

2022: Started his glazing apprenticeship.

2022: Chosen for the Apprentice Leaders Programme.

2023: Named Most Promising Apprentice.

2024: Completed his apprenticeship.

Cameron also has his eye on the future. “Now that I’ve qualified, I want to keep learning in the field. Eventually, I’d love to work my way into an operations role and help support the next generation of apprentices.”

Cameron’s Advice for Apprentices

“If you’ve got a chance—take it! Take it while you’ve got it. If you’ve got a dream, chase it. Your dream won’t chase you back.”

He also keeps it simple when it comes to work habits:
“Always be on time. It means you’re organised. If you’re organised, you’re confident - and confidence changes attitudes.”

Advice to Employers

“Signing your worker up to an apprenticeship is an investment - but like any investment, you only get back what you put in. If you give them the bare minimum, don’t be surprised if that’s all you get out.”

What Makes a Great Allan Sage Award Candidate?

“Drive and determination. A point of difference—communication, leadership, or health and safety. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being hungry to grow and willing to give more than what’s expected.”

Handshakes and Finished Jobs

Asked what he loves most about glazing, Cameron smiles. “It’s handing over a finished job, shaking hands, and knowing it’s solid. That it’ll last. That I did that.”

For other apprentices wondering if they’re cut out for success—Cameron is living proof that where you start doesn’t define where you’ll end up. It’s the choices you make, the people who back you, and the belief that you’re capable of more that will get you there.

And he’s just getting started.