A young Stirlingshire electrician – and former Forth Valley College Modern Apprentice - has been recognised for his exceptional talent by being crowned the 2022 Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) Apprentice of the Year, in conjunction with Edmundson Electrical.
Ben Wardrop, who works for Ross-shire Engineering in Muir of Ord, Ross-shire, was presented with an award and certificate in recognition of his achievement and also received a cheque for £1,000.
Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the SJIB, said: “The SJIB Apprentice of the Year awards celebrate the best new talent in our industry and reinforce the fact that apprentices are the sector’s great hope for the future.
“Ben is a remarkable young electrical professional who has demonstrated a tenacity and determination to succeed in his chosen career and has now acquired skills which are not only future-proofed but internationally-transferrable.
“He has shown both ability and dedication throughout his training and we are delighted that Ben has now been recognised for his exceptional talent.”
Derek Allen, Scottish Regional Director of Edmundson Electrical, said: “Ben should be rightfully proud of his achievements, and his employer, college lecturers and training officers from the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) should also be praised for continuing to help develop the talent of tomorrow.”
Ben, from Stirling, is now a qualified electrician after completing his studies at Forth Valley College in Falkirk. He was presented with his award by Scott Foley, Leader of the Trade Union side of the SJIB National Board, Chair of the SECTT Board of Trustees and Regional Officer at Unite the Union.
The 23-year-old said: “Electrical apprenticeships are more vital than ever and I’m very pleased not only to have completed my learning but to also have been awarded this tremendous accolade.
“With this award, I really feel that I’m on the start of a career path which could take me anywhere. I feel a debt of gratitude to everyone who backed me and showed faith in me.”
Lloyd Scott, Electrical Operations Manager at Ross-shire Engineering, said: “Ben deserves this award for the dedication, discipline and enthusiasm he has displayed throughout his training. He has a stellar career ahead of him and we are proud to have played our part in his development.”
Founded in 1969 by electrical trade association SELECT and Unite the Union, the SJIB’s duties include regulating between employers and employees, providing benefits for people engaged in the industry, and stimulating industry progress. In addition, it has oversight of employment, skills and proficiency, health and safety competence, wages and welfare benefits across the electrical industry in Scotland.
Edmundson Electrical is an electrical wholesaler that serves Scotland from more than 37 locations. Its customer base includes electrical contractors and engineers, industrial companies, facilities management, government agencies and local authorities.