The 40th Annual SNIPEF SkillPLUMB competition was won by Richard Wilson, a third year plumbing apprentice from Aberdeen who works for Aberdeenshire firm, Sugplumb. North East Scotland College, where Richard studies, hosted the event, which was held on June 5–6.
A total of 13 participants from colleges and training centres across Scotland gathered to compete in the competition, which involves practical exercises in copper pipework and lead work, as well as a multiple choice test. The work of the participants is assessed and marked by a panel of technical experts.
Second prize was awarded to Algirds Balta, of Borders College, employed by Greenheat Renewables, in Roslin, and third place went to Matthew Gorrie of Perth College UHI, who works for L.W. Haddow Plumbing and Heating, Perth.
The winner may go on to represent Scotland at SkillBUILD UK in Birmingham in November where the highest scoring winners from the heats will compete in the UK final.
SkillPLUMB is an annual skills competition designed to promote standards and skills across the plumbing industry, developing competence into excellence. SkillPLUMB can bring invaluable benefits to students, colleges and employers. Competitors can gain recognition for exceptional skills, injecting dynamism and excitement into training. Employers can enhance their business reputation and improve the skills of their workforce.