THREE of Scotland’s brightest plumbing apprentices were awarded the title of Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year at Glasgow Clyde College.
Finlay John Macaulay from Alpah and Moray College UHI (University of Highlands and Islands) took home first place in the competition’s Copper Category following his demonstration of technical skills. Paul Marshall from James Frew Ltd and West College Scotland, and Callum Westwood from Park Plumbing and Heating and Perth College UHI were second and third, respectively.
Finlay Calder was victorious in the new Renewable Category. Representing R&I Cruden Limited and Inverness College UHI, his understanding of renewable energy technologies set him apart. Thomas Pender from Solway Heating Services Ltd and Glasgow Kelvin College, and Tommy Smith from Moray Council and Moray College UHI, took second and third place, respectively.
In the Lead Category, Shaun Wilcox of Moray Council and Moray College UHI showcased ‘exceptional’ precision and commitment, securing the top spot. Runners-up were Marion Lisa Stewart from G&A Barnie Group Ltd and Moray College UHI, and Ryan McCrone from Cruden Building (Scotland) Ltd and Glasgow Clyde College.
SNIPEF’s chief executive, Fiona Hodgson, said, “The competitors clearly demonstrated why they were chosen to represent their colleges, all showcasing an abundance of technical skills, knowledge, commitment and enthusiasm throughout the competition. They are the best of the best of our next generation of plumbing and heating professionals, and I commend them all.
“Their success competition coincides with SNIPEF having just been awarded Scottish Government funding for 400 new plumbing and heating apprenticeships, helping to ensure that our profession can deliver Scotland’s ambition to transition to a low-carbon society.”
Christopher Paxton, regional director of City Plumbing, headline sponsor of the Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year awards, added, “This year’s competition has highlighted the extraordinary talent and tenacity of our industry’s emerging professionals. Our support for this competition in 2023 underscores our belief in the transformative power of apprenticeships and our dedication to driving growth and sustainability in the industry. We’re excited to continue investing in our industry’s future and can’t wait to see how these promising apprentices will help shape a greener, more efficient Scotland.”
One of the highlights of this year’s competition was the performance by apprentices from the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), who claimed a record six out of the nine top prizes.
Commenting on their success, Dale Thomson, SNIPEF training manager, said, “We’re incredibly proud of the success of our apprentices from UHI. Their accomplishments underscore the exceptional calibre of education and training provided by the University, which in turn reflects on the excellent future prospects of our profession. Their achievement is not just a testament to their skill but also signifies the impact of dedicated and high-quality education in plumbing and heating in our country.”
