SIT Master of Applied Management students recently took a field trip to local skip company, Kiwi Skips, to learn more about real-world business challenges and strategies, helping students connect theoretical concepts learned in class with practical business applications.
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The objective of the field trip was to provide students with real practical exposure to how businesses operate in Invercargill and to gain valuable insights from industry experience.
During the visit, the Managing Director, Dan Butterfield, and the General Manager, Chris Kennett, from Kiwi Skips shared valuable insights into their business operations, explaining how the business was established, the key challenges they have faced, and the importance of delivering excellent customer service in building Kiwi Skips.
They also discussed the different marketing strategies they use to establish their brand as recognised and remembered in the market. Programme Operations Manager (SIT Online), Hemal Amarasekara said the Applied Marketing students were actively engaged during the session, asking questions to gain further understanding. “Dan and Chris both provided detailed, informative responses to support student learning.”
Mr Amarasekara said the trip offered numerous benefits for the master’s students, who come from both international and Kiwi backgrounds, creating a diverse learning environment.
“The field trip provided valuable real-world exposure to how businesses operate in Invercargill, helping students connect theoretical concepts learned in class with practical business applications.”
“For students, the experience offered important insights into the New Zealand business environment, and interacting directly with industry professionals gave all students the opportunity to learn about real business challenges and strategies. Building relationships with business leaders also supports students’ professional networking, which can be highly beneficial for their future careers.”