THE Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI) annual SkillBuild NI Regional Competition 2024 in partnership with CITB (GB) and South West College, has taken place at the Technology and Skills Centre, Killyhevlin, Enniskillen.

The competition is a search for the top performers within construction apprenticeship programmes from across Northern Ireland and a showcase of the wealth of talent, professionalism, and the brightest recruits throughout the industry.

93 of the brightest recruits and top performers within construction apprenticeship programmes from across Northern Ireland competed against each other to win in categories: Brickwork, Furniture & Cabinet Making, Carpentry, Electrical Installation, Joinery, Painting & Decorating,  Fire and Security,  Drylining, Plastering, Plumbing, Wall & Floor Tiling.

SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB GB) and showcases some of the brightest talent in construction. Supported by Department for the Economy and local construction companies, the competition provides an opportunity to showcase the high level of skills and the impressive talent within the workforce, as well as raising the status and standards of professional and technical education and training.

There were 12 first place winners in the categories with overall young apprentice of the year.

Winners from the NI Regional Competition, will have the opportunity to represent  Northern Ireland in the Skillbuild UK National Finals in November.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITB NI, said: “A huge congratulations to all the apprentices who took part in the SkillBuild NI Regional Competition 2024. The event displayed remarkable talent and showcased the dedication of future construction leaders. Witnessing their enthusiasm highlights a promising future for the industry. Apprenticeships are crucial for industry growth, allowing businesses to shape their future workforce and develop necessary skills. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our partners CITB (GB) and SWC for the fantastic showcase of the NI talent pool throughout the competition and we look forward to the SkillBuild UK National Finals in November.”

Celine McCartan Principal and Chief Executive said: “We were honoured to host the SkillBuild NI regional competition at our Technology and Skills Centre in Enniskillen. It’s an affirmation of our commitment to nurturing talent and providing a platform for skill development. We welcome participants to showcase their abilities and embrace the spirit of competition, knowing that it’s through such events that excellence is recognised and celebrated. The standard of work on display was exceptional and I wish all the winners every success as they progress to the next stage of the national competitions. Their success is a credit to the Further Education sector lecturers and partner employers who have been supporting them in advance of the intense competition. I would also like to thank the teams at SWC, CITB (GB) and CITB NI for their work in bringing this prestigious competition to the South West.”

For further details on SkillBuild NI and CITB NI support for apprenticeships and employers visit www.citbni.org.uk

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