SNIPEF

Three of Scotland’s brightest and most promising plumbing apprentices have demonstrated that the future of the profession is in safe hands after being awarded the prestigious title of Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year at Glasgow Clyde College.

Finlay John Macaulay from Alpah and Moray College UHI (University of Highlands and Islands) took home first place in the competition’s Copper Category following his impressive demonstration of technical skills. Paul Marshall from James Frew Ltd and West College Scotland, and Callum Westwood from Park Plumbing and Heating and Perth College UHI claimed second and third place, respectively.

Finlay Calder emerged victorious in the new Renewable Category, introduced for the first time this year’s competition. Representing R&I Cruden Limited and Inverness College UHI, Calder's profound understanding of renewable energy technologies set him apart from his peers. Thomas Pender from Solway Heating Services Ltd and Glasgow Kelvin College, and Tommy Smith from Moray Council and Moray College UHI, took second and third place, respectively.

In the Lead Category, Shaun Wilcox of Moray Council and Moray College UHI showcased exceptional precision and commitment, securing the top spot. Runners-up were Marion Lisa Stewart from G&A Barnie Group Ltd and Moray College UHI, and Ryan McCrone from Cruden Building (Scotland) Ltd and Glasgow Clyde College.

SNIPEF's Chief Executive, Fiona Hodgson, commended the apprentices, saying, "The competitors clearly demonstrated why they were chosen to represent their colleges, all showcasing an abundance of technical skills, knowledge, commitment and enthusiasm throughout the competition. They are the best of the best of our next generation of plumbing and heating professionals, and I commend them all.

“Their success competition coincides with SNIPEF having just been awarded Scottish Government funding for 400 new plumbing and heating apprenticeships, helping to ensure that our profession can deliver Scotland’s ambition to transition to a low-carbon society.”

Christopher Paxton, Regional Director of City Plumbing, headline sponsor of the Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year awards, commented, "This year's competition has highlighted the extraordinary talent and tenacity of our industry's emerging professionals."

"Our support for this competition in 2023 underscores our belief in the transformative power of apprenticeships and our dedication to driving growth and sustainability in the industry. We're excited to continue investing in our industry's future and can't wait to see how these promising apprentices will help shape a greener, more efficient Scotland."

Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year competition, with headline sponsor City Plumbing, is a college-based practical application competition, challenging apprentices in two material categories: copper and lead. The winner from each category earns the prestigious title of Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year (category).

This year SNIPEF introduced a new third competition on Renewables. This competition, involving theory, design and practical elements, allows apprentices to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in the ever-important area of renewable technology.

The adoption of renewable technologies is anticipated to become a crucial component of the profession over the coming decade, aligning with the Scottish and UK Government's commitments to use heat pumps and district heating systems and decommission fossil-based or energy-intensive heating technologies.

This year, the headline sponsor was City Plumbing, category sponsors BPEC and UK Plumbing Supplies, material supply sponsors Conex Banninger, Mueller Europe, and ALM. Glasgow Clyde College hosted the competition for a second year, providing excellent services and hospitality.