Member Article

Apprentices awarded for their commitment to construction

Two apprentices from Leeds College of Building are celebrating their success at an awards event designed to recognise commitment to construction.

Kwami Thompson, who is a plastering apprentice and works for social housing and regeneration specialist Keepmoat, won the coveted ‘Trainee of the Year’ title at the Committed to Construction in Humber & West Yorkshire (CCIHWY) Awards which are endorsed by the Chartered Institute of Building.

Kwami, who is 20 and from Little London in Leeds says: “My apprenticeship has changed my life and if anyone is thinking of going into the construction industry, I couldn’t recommend it highly enough. I’m learning new skills, meeting new people and gaining experience by being part of a big project. “It’s a great achievement to win this award. I have progressed so much since I started at Keepmoat, not only as a plasterer but as a person, and my confidence is soaring following this award win.”

Another apprentice from Leeds College of Building, Chris Blackburn was Highly Commended. Chris who is 21 years old and a BTEC Level 3 Civil Engineering apprentice, works for structural engineering firm WSP. He said: “I got into engineering because I wanted to change people’s everyday lives and the most enjoyable part of my role at WSP is seeing how my schemes operate and knowing that I have an impact in the way decisions are made and the way things can work. I’m delighted with the recognition my commendation has given me, there was a lot of competition and I’m thrilled the work I do at WSP to deliver sustainable and economic solutions has been praised in this way.”

More than 320 representatives from housing providers and construction firms across Yorkshire celebrated at the awards ceremony which was held at the Royal Armouries in Leeds and sponsored by CITB Construction Skills.

Ian Billyard, Principal at Leeds College of Building said: “These awards reflect the dynamic nature of the construction industry and highlight the broad spectrum of construction excellence delivered by businesses working in the area. We are delighted with Kwami’s and Chris’ success, they are dedicated to their careers in construction and a real asset to both our college and their employers.”

CIOB Leeds & West Yorkshire Centre Chairman, Paul Clarkson said: “These awards celebrate the region’s commitment to building communities and highlight the broad spectrum of construction excellence delivered by businesses working in the area. They demonstrate what can be achieved through strong partnerships, a clear vision and delivery through high quality implementation.

“We were overwhelmed at the quality of the entries we received. The winners are all very deserving of their awards and we look forward to seeing them again next year and finding out more about their ongoing and future programmes of work.”

Hosted by Harry Gration, the eleven winners were presented with their awards by representatives from the category sponsors. £2,500 was also raised at the event for the CCIHWY’s chosen charity St. Gemma’s Hospice in Moortown, Leeds. The hospice provides care to local people living with all types of incurable illnesses, as well as offering support to family and friends. They also provide emotional support and alternative therapies such as massage and Reiki, enabling patients to celebrate special occasions and even hold weddings at the Hospice.

Tracie Harrison, Senior Fundraiser for the Hospice said: “We are delighted to have the support of CCIHWY, the support we receive from organisations like this is very much needed and appreciated by our committed team of staff as well as the patients and everyone connected with St Gemma’s.” The Awards will be held again next year in Spring 2016. The Committed to Construction in Humber & West Yorkshire Awards are the most prestigious event in the construction industry’s social calendar in the region.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Emma Mortimer .