With the search now on to find the second NICEIC and ELECSA Electrical Apprentice of the Year (2017), Marie Parry, marketing director of Scolmore Group – the competition’s partner sponsor – catches up with one of this year’s finalists, Michael Woolley, to see how life has changed for him.
“I think the biggest thing that the competition did for me was to boost my confidence and open my eyes to the opportunities out there. I never expected to get through to the final stages and I did struggle with some of the tasks on the day, but that made me more determined to push myself and get more experience under my belt,” says Michael.
“I decided to apply for a job with the Orton Group. They don’t normally take on apprentices from the training provider I was with, but I managed to sell myself to them and the fact that I had reached the finals of the competition made a really good impression. I even took in my trophy and certificate to show them when I went for my interview. It all paid off and they offered me a job.”
Michael continues, “I can honestly say that if I hadn’t entered the competition, I wouldn’t be here today. I would definitely urge any Level 3 apprentices out there, who may not think they are up to it, to get their applications in.”
There is still time for apprentices to enter and the competition is open to all Level 3 students. The brightest talents will have the opportunity to win a range of prizes – including holiday vouchers worth £2,000 for the winner, £750 for the runner up and £250 for third place. The eight finalists will also each receive an engraved trophy, an iPad and a ‘Van Pack’ of Scolmore products, while the college of the overall winner will receive £1,000 worth of Scolmore products.
The final will take place at Scolmore Group’s head offices in Tamworth, Staffordshire, on Tuesday 6th June, when candidates will be required to complete a number of challenging practical tasks over the course of the day. The Electrical Apprentice of the Year will be crowned at a special barbecue and awards ceremony to be held at The Belfry Hotel & Resort that evening.
