At just 21 years old, Todd Maitland is proving that determination and the right support can lay the foundation for extraordinary success — both on the job site and on the basketball court.
Todd, who has autism, verbal dyspraxia and developmental delay, is a full-time concreter with Brownmore Concrete in Waihi, working under the guidance of his long-time mentor and boss, Rex Podmore. He starts work often before dawn pouring slabs across the Waikato, Coromandel, Hauraki, Thames, Paeroa, and Waihi regions.
His journey began in high school, where a work experience placement with Rex sparked his passion for concreting. Despite challenges with reading, technical plans, and comprehension, Todd refused to give up. With the help of BCITO training advisor Bill, he completed a two-part apprenticeship in steel reinforcing and concrete placing/finishing, using tailored learning tools including whiteboards, diagrams, and a C-Pen reader that allowed him to hear written text aloud.
“Todd didn’t need special treatment — he just needed a fair chance,” says Rex. “We focused on what he could do, not what he couldn’t. Now he’s one of the team.”
That belief paid off. Todd was named 2025 Concrete Industry Apprentice of the Year, recognised on stage before 400 industry leaders at the New Zealand Concrete Awards in Auckland — a moment he describes as “one of the proudest nights of my life.”
His training success was matched by another milestone: co-purchasing his first home with his brother in Paeroa. He also recently celebrated his 21st birthday — and completed his “yardie” in four minutes flat.
Todd’s achievements extend well beyond concrete. He is a member of New Zealand’s Whaikaha men’s basketball team, representing athletes with intellectual disabilities. The team has competed in Australia, medalled in Tasmania, and will head to Bangkok in 2026 for the Asia-Pacific Games.
A natural leader on and off the court, Todd’s dream is to one day represent New Zealand as a Tall Black.
“Basketball and concreting are kind of the same,” he says. “You’ve got to have teamwork, focus, and never give up.”
Todd’s story was recently featured on TVNZ’s Attitude programme, which profiles New Zealanders living extraordinary lives with disability. The episode showcases not only his success in sport and work, but also the role inclusive employers and adaptive learning play in helping young people thrive.
BCITO’s support — including a scholarship for an Outward Bound leadership course — helped Todd gain confidence, independence, and communication skills. His journey has become a shining example of how flexibility and understanding in vocational training can unlock potential.
“When young people like Todd are given a real chance, they can go far beyond anyone’s expectations,” said his mother Tina.
Todd continues to pour concrete slabs, lead his basketball team, and inspire others with his attitude. His message to anyone facing similar challenges is simple:
“Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. If you work hard and believe in yourself, anything’s possible.”
