Inverness apprentice scoops top prize at leading industry awards
A 23 year old construction apprentice from Inverness is celebrating award success after winning first place in the New Entrant category at the UK’s biggest construction skills competition.
Emma-Louise Mackenzie, who is studying painting and decorating at Inverness College UHI, showcased her skills and competed against nine others at the regional heat of SkillBuild 2017 to win the coveted top spot.
Organised by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) the competition sees the best in construction talent compete against each other to be crowned the SkillBuild winner across 10 chosen craft occupations.
Emma is now eligible to enter the regional senior heat next year. Emma said: “It feels amazing to win such a prestigious industry competition - I’m looking forward to the next stage.
“I’ve loved painting and crafts since I was young and this really inspired me to develop my career in this area. I am really enjoying my course and work experience and look forward to progressing in the industry.”
Emma took up a part time introductory course for a national progression award (NPA) at Inverness College in 2015 and progressed onto her apprenticeship in 2016. She will be fully qualified in 2019.
Maureen Turner, course lecturer at Inverness College UHI. “We’re all very proud of Emma. With her high level of enthusiasm, commitment and practical ability we were delighted to give Emma the opportunity to showcase her talent.
“SkillBuild is a well-organised and professional competition and it’s a great way for students to test their skills against their peers across the country.”
Emma has been working with Nodram Decorators based in Inverness, which is helping her to enhance her skill set.
Donald MacPhee, company director of Nodram Decorators Ltd said: “All of us at Nodram are delighted that Emma’s skill and dedication has been recognised with this award. Talented apprentices like Emma, working alongside our team of qualified decorators, enhance the reputation of our craft and ensure the long term future of the industry.”