Taranaki farmer wins LIC Apprentice of the Year Award
10 August 2026
Taranaki dairy farmer Brandon Hitchcock was shocked to win the LIC Apprentice of the Year title in June, after completing training as an Artificial Breeding (AB) Technician through LIC and Primary ITO.
Brandon Hitchcock - LIC Apprentice of the Year
Brandon, 29, is in his second season of 50/50 sharemilking 300 cows with his partner Sarah in Tikorangi, near Waitara. He was born and raised on a dairy farm in Inglewood.
“Last year was our first season sharemilking,” Brandon says. “We bought a herd of cows and I’m really enjoying being my own boss.”
On the farm he worked previously, the farmer was an experienced AB Technician with LIC.
“I thought I may as well learn how to do it and gain a new skill.”
Trainee AB Technicians undertake an initial two weeks of training delivered by LIC trainers on-site at ANZCO, where they complete a series of practical attempts, developing accuracy and technique while working towards the expected standard. After meeting these standards, trainees progress onto the second week, which shifts the focus from building skill to maintaining it. Trainees work through a higher volume of attempts, while maintaining accuracy and technique. Those who meet the standards progress to the full twelve-month apprenticeship, where they are partnered with a senior AB Technician who acts as a mentor throughout the season.
Brandon is in his second season of 50/50 sharemilking 300 cows with his partner Sarah in Tikorangi
The training includes one unit standard resource developed by LIC and three unit standard resources developed by Primary ITO, with modules on health and safety, and reproduction.
“I grew up around cattle so had knowledge already, but it was good to learn more about the science side of reproduction,” Brandon says.
At the end of the season, apprentices return for a practical refresher and final assessment. These results, alongside their performance throughout the apprenticeship, determine whether they have met the standard required to qualify as an LIC AB Technician. Successful graduates celebrate their achievements at a graduation ceremony, where the LIC Apprentice of the Year Award winner is announced.
Brandon was shocked to win the top award.
Brandon is enjoying getting to know local farmers in his role as an AB Technician.
“I look after five or six farms nearby and I’m enjoying getting to know my neighbours and having a yarn.”
Looking ahead, Brandon is keen to continue working as an AB Technician alongside sharemilking and working towards the long-term goal of farm ownership.
LIC aims to train at least 100 new AB Technicians each year. Their team of 900+ AB Technicians complete around four million inseminations across New Zealand each year, ensuring the arrival of the next generation of dairy cows and adding value to the genetic improvement in the dairy sector.
Clinton Laing, AB Operations Manager at LIC, says LIC has been training AB Technicians for many years and has built a reputation for developing highly skilled professionals within the dairy industry.
“LIC’s training programme is comprehensive and robust, incorporating practical, field-based, and administrative components to ensure technicians develop the knowledge, skills, and professionalism required to perform at the highest standard. The programme has earned a strong reputation and is widely recognised throughout New Zealand and internationally, producing highly capable, respected, and valued technicians who are regarded as leaders in their field.
“Together, LIC and Primary ITO remain committed to supporting the development of a skilled workforce that delivers excellence to farmers and contributes to the ongoing success of New Zealand’s dairy industry.”
Primary ITO sector manager Tanya Ingram says LIC has a real commitment to developing skilled people and they are making a meaningful and lasting contribution to the dairy industry.
“The calibre of learners each year is always outstanding. Congratulations Brandon - this is a fantastic achievement.
“Thank you must also go to LIC for partnering with us for over a decade and giving their team an opportunity to achieve an NZQA accredited qualification. We truly value the partnership and love collaborating with the team.”
Applications for 2027 training will open October 1, 2026. Learn more on the LIC website here.