Creating a future-ready workforce means building workplaces where people of different ages, backgrounds and experiences can grow, contribute and develop meaningful careers over time.
As demand for skilled healthcare professionals continues to grow, attracting and retaining talent is a challenge faced by many practices. Mark Goodhew of Timaru Dental Care has responded by building a team that brings together emerging professionals, experienced practitioners and talent from beyond New Zealand.
Mark has developed strong links to education pathways, particularly through the University of Otago’s School of Dentistry. Several members of the clinical team are Otago graduates, including dentists who qualified in 2021, 2024 and 2025. This demonstrates how the Timaru District can successfully attract and retain highly skilled graduates at the beginning of their careers. The proximity of Timaru to Dunedin and Otago University creates a valuable advantage.
Alongside emerging professionals, the practice also benefits from decades of experience. One of its newest team members graduated from Otago in 1973 and joined Timaru Dental Care in 2025 after a long career serving communities across the region. His continued participation in the workforce highlights the opportunities available for people later in their careers to remain connected to meaningful work while sharing a lifetime of knowledge, expertise and professional judgement with younger colleagues. This intergenerational approach creates valuable mentoring opportunities, helping pass on technical skills, work ethic and a passion for patient care.
The practice has also demonstrated that Timaru can attract talent from around the world. A dentist who trained and practised in the United States has chosen to continue his career in Timaru, bringing a different perspective and experience to the team. His decision reflects the appeal of the district as a place where skilled professionals can build rewarding careers while enjoying the lifestyle and opportunities that regional New Zealand offers.
Timaru Dental Care is also investing in the next generation. A current team member first joined through the High School Gateway Programme, gaining work experience that inspired a career in dental assisting. After becoming a permanent employee, she completed her professional qualification and continues to build her career within the practice.
Timaru Dental Care’s approach reflects a broader ambition shared by employers across the district: creating workplaces where people can belong, learn and lead at every stage of their career. By embracing diversity, supporting qualification pathways and valuing both emerging and experienced professionals, businesses like Timaru Dental Care are helping build a skilled, adaptable workforce ready to meet the opportunities of the future.
