Building group Seddon has hailed the success of one of its bricklaying apprentices, who has progressed to the national finals of SkillBuild.
After winning his North West regional heat, 22-year-old Jake Horoszczak will now take part in the competition’s national finals this autumn. He will represent his employer and Tameside College during the event.
Run by CITB, SkillBuild is the biggest multi-trade competition in the UK, with around 150 people taking part in the North West heat alone. Industry experts were on hand to judge their skills at Stockport College.
Following his regional success, Jake said he is keen to make the most of the opportunities which Seddon has provided him with.
He added: “I have had an amazing time as an apprentice, and now I get to put all my training and expertise to the ultimate test as I prepare for the national championships later this year.”
Seddon has previously recognised the achievements of Jake through its annual Building Skills awards scheme and by naming him a ‘one to watch’.
He has been able to develop a range of skills by working on the Hindley Town Yard development for Wigan and Leigh Homes. This project will ultimately aim to build 25 apartments and eight bungalows.
Kevin Ripley, who has helped mentor Jack on the Hindley project, said the young apprentice is always willing to work hard and get “stuck in”, while delivering work that is of a high standard.
While highlighting Jake’s success, Tony Costello, head of training at Seddon, said more efforts should now be made to plug skills gaps with the help of apprenticeships.
He said construction firms should aim to deliver more apprenticeships so that people can develop their careers and get hands-on training.
Ten craft occupations are currently covered by the SkillBuild competition, ranging from bricklaying and carpentry through to roofing and stonemasonry, with the scheme recognising talent for more than 45 years.
The regional heats of the competition are held between April and June, with the national final held in the autumn.
