“I was excited when I got the job,” says Iese. “It was a bit unexpected because it was the first interview I’d had for construction.”

The father of two had been released from prison a few months before he had the interview for a one-off offence. He says being behind bars was an eye-opening experience.

“It was both good and bad. It helped that my partner supported me. I know I don’t want to go back there.”

At JFC, Iese works as a labourer and he is gaining experience across the business. Initially he was in a team which lays footpaths and driveways and now he is working on roads.

His team meets at the company base in Mangere at 7am. They work on one or two sites a day across Auckland and usually finish work at about 5 pm.

He says being part of a tight-knit crew makes the day go quickly. “The guys just make the job fun and everyone’s really helpful and patient.”

But there was a lot to learn at first. “On my first day I was nervous because I didn’t know anyone.

“I was mixing cement and I didn’t know how to level the buckets, but I got the hang of it. At the end of the week, they gave me good feedback and said I was a fast learner.”

JFC department manager Johnny Verry has full praise for Iese. “He’s brilliant. He’s got a positive attitude and works very hard.

“He’s picked up the work really quickly. He gives everything a go and it’s paying off for him and for us.”

Johnny says the fact he has a criminal record was no issue. “We just gave him a fair chance. I brought it up with him when I first met him and that was the only time we’ve ever mentioned it.”

Iese says the best thing about the role is the sense of satisfaction it brings. “My favourite thing about the job is when we get the work done. Then I just want to see what the next challenge is. It’s a great feeling, especially if it’s been a big job.”