An apprentice joiner who studies at Forth Valley College, narrowly missed out on winning a prestigious national training award recently.
Ewen McIntyre (21) from Cambusbarron, Stirling, who works for Indeglas Ltd, was runner-up in the final of the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) awards held at the Plaisterers Hall in London on Tuesday 22 November.
Finishes and Interiors Sector FIS is the not for profit representative body for the £10 billion finishes and interiors sector in the UK. The organisation exists to support its members, improve safety, minimise risk, enhance productivity and drive innovation in the sector.
The training awards recognise excellence and achievement in plastering and interior trades and will celebrates:
- The achievement of apprentices
- Students who have exceeded beyond expectations
- The delivery of training by colleges and training providers
- Training delivery by an FIS member company
- Mentors and others who have supported sector training
- Lifetime contribution to sector training
The Apprentice of the Year training awards recognises and rewards the achievements of exceptional apprentices in plastering and interior trades. There are two awards for Apprentice of the Year, one for plastering and one for interior trades. Nominees need to have been working in the industry for at least 12 months. Entrants must have undertaken the relevant apprenticeship within the last two years.
Judges were looking for examples of: Commitment to personal development; Progression through skills and learning; Contribution to the organisation or to a project; Personal qualities that make the individual stand out; and Contribution to teamwork.
Ewen, said: “It was an amazing experience to be nominated for a top award in my sector and attend the award ceremony in such a magic building as Plaisterers Hall London. I feel over the last year I have developed my skills in joinery to a high standard and level which is what we aim for in our second year.
“I would also like to thank Forth Valley College for the facilities to learn in and the tutoring they have given me in the last year, which has allowed me to excel and be in the top category for my trade. It is a very proud moment for me, my company Indeglas Ltd and my training provider Forth Valley College to come in second in such a high end award.”
FVC Construction Lecturer, Scott Hunter, said: “It is a wonderful effort from Ewen to achieve this recognition at this level. It highlights the hard work and commitment shown by Ewen over the last few years and which is very satisfying.
“It is a proud and rewarding moment for Ewen and his family and something to build on for the future. Also showing an example to others for what can be achieved through hard work. Well done.”
Irene Kane, FVC Apprenticeship Officer, said: “Ewen started his four year apprenticeship in August 2021 and is now in his second year. He represents his employer (Indeglas Ltd) well when he is in college. This is a fantastic achievement for a young apprentice to be runner up in such a prestigious competition, he should be really proud of himself.”