Two plumbing and heating apprentices from the UK have been announced as semi-finalists for this year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition.
The semi-finalists are Cary Rudd, who is 20 years old from Manchester, and Harvey Robinson, who is 18 years old from Ilkley.
The winner will receive a £10,000 trade bundle made up of tools, tech and training. During the semi-final stage, 37 apprentices will undergo an interview to secure a place in the final, which will take place at Google HQ in April.
Cary is currently undertaking a City and Guilds in Plumbing and Heating at Salford City Skills.
He said: “I am delighted to have made it through to the semi-finals of Screwfix Trade Apprentice. To have been selected from a record number of applications is a huge achievement for me. I’m excited about the prospect of representing Manchester on a national stage.
“I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship and learned so much along the way. I love the people I encounter at work, and every day is different. Seeing a project from start to finish gives such a sense of accomplishment, and I’d love to be able to help other young people get into trades.”
Meanwhile, Harvey is currently undertaking a plumbing apprenticeship at Craven College, Skipton. He was nominated by his employer, Jamie Cawthraw.
Jamie added: “Harvey’s drive for excellence is unmatched. From day one he has shown huge amounts of potential, and his can-do attitude and confidence within his work and relationships with clients is amazing to see. Harvey is constantly thinking of ways to better himself and help the company. Always brimming with ideas and suggestions to help our company be more sustainable.”
Harvey said: “I’m excited to have made it to the semi-finals. I hope that my commitment to the trade will be recognised by the judges and I will do everything I can to try and make it to the final.”
Jack Wallace, marketing director at Screwfix, added: “As a retailer to the trade, we are committed to championing tradespeople across the UK and Ireland. The 12th annual Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition is a national platform which recognises and celebrates apprentices, whilst also highlighting the crucial contribution they make to the industry.
“With apprentices so important to the future success of the industry, it is great to see that we have received a record number of entries this year. To make it through to the highly contested semi-final stage is a fantastic achievement and I wish this year’s semi-finalists the very best of luck in making it to the final.”