Toi Mai Workforce Development Council is supporting a short work-based AI training pilot programme delivered by Dev Academy Aotearoa that includes a 300-hour paid internship with a New Zealand tech business.

“We are partnering with Dev Academy on this innovative 20-week programme to give learners the skills needed to keep up with rapid advancements in AI software development and ensure they are highly employable,” says Dr Claire Robinson, Te Tumu o Toi | Toi Mai Chief Executive.

“This is in response to the tech industry telling us they need graduates who have up-to-date knowledge in AI software development, a specialised IT area that is changing rapidly. This programme also aligns with the Government’s goal of industries using AI to boost business productivity and competitiveness.”

Dev Academy CEO Rohan Wakefield says this short, specialised pilot programme will be delivered in mid-2026 and is designed for up to ten level 6+ IT graduates with software or app development experience.

Learners will be able to complete the classroom-based training online and be paid the living wage during the 300-hour internship while they train on the job.

“Developers who collaborate effectively with AI are far more valuable to employers. We built the first agentic AI software development training this year, and with these paid workplace internships will be graduating exceptional AI software developers into industry,” says Wakefield.

Dr Robinson says Toi Mai has spent the past four years developing ways to facilitate work-based learning for the industries we cover, including technology, within the constraints of the current vocational education and training system.

“We are being disestablished at the end of 2025, so will support the set-up of this pilot programme and then pass it to the Electrotechnology, IT & Creative Industry Skills Board (ISB).

“We hope the ISB will work with Dev Academy and potentially other vocational education providers to evaluate ways to develop ongoing viable work-based learning for the fast moving, high growth technology industry.”

Read more about the pilot programme.