Apprentice is building a bright future

A Shetland apprentice is building a name for himself after winning a top construction industry award.

Christopher Smith, 24, took home the National Construction College (NCC) Outstanding Apprentice of the Year award at the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Pride of Construction Awards ceremony at Old Billingsgate in London on Monday.

The awards mark CITB’s 50th anniversary and celebrate key contributions made by individuals, companies and training partners to the industry.

National Construction College student Christopher – who works at Irvine Contractors Ltd in Lerwick – is in the third year of his apprenticeship.

After being presented with the award by television personality Alexander Armstrong, Christopher said: “I’m proud to have received this award.

“The training and support I have received during my apprenticeship from my employer, the NCC and CITB have helped give me a great start in the construction industry.”

NCC principal Andy Walder said: “Christopher is an outstanding apprentice and a worthy winner of our Outstanding Apprentice of the Year award due to his attitude, aptitude and ability.

“We are delighted to recognise and credit his achievements as he excels in his trade.  Christopher is a credit to the industry and we wish him further success in his career.”

Leslie Irvine of Irvine Contractors said: “His commitment and enthusiasm shines through to all who come into contact with him both employees and customers.

“He consistently shows the right attitude towards work, is a strong team player, an integral member of our staff and an important part of our succession planning to help our business to grow in the future.”