The winners of the Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year have been announced at Glasgow Clyde College.
Finlay John Macaulay from Alpah and Moray College University of Highlands and Islands (UHI) took home first place in the competition’s Copper Category following his ‘impressive’ demonstration of technical skills, a statement has said. Paul Marshall from James Frew and West College Scotland, and Callum Westwood from Park Plumbing and Heating and Perth College UHI claimed second and third place, respectively.
Finlay Calder emerged victorious in the new Renewable Category, introduced for the first time in this year’s competition. Representing R&I Cruden and Inverness College UHI, Finlay’s profound understanding of renewable energy technologies set him apart from his peers, a statement said. Thomas Pender from Solway Heating Services and Glasgow Kelvin College, and Tommy Smith from Moray Council and Moray College UHI, took second and third place.
In the Lead Category, Shaun Wilcox of Moray Council and Moray College UHI secured the top spot. Runners-up were Marion Lisa Stewart from G&A Barnie Group and Moray College UHI, and Ryan McCrone from Cruden Building (Scotland) and Glasgow Clyde College.
Fiona Hodgson, SNIPEF’s chief executive, 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.”