Apprentice electrician Andrew Emmerson, who works in Darlington Borough Council’s Community Services Department, has won a national award.
He scooped the award in the Male Mechanical and Electrical Skills Category, in the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) Apprentice Awards, sponsored by Baxi.
Of his win, Andrew said: “To be honest, it was a bit of a surprise, I didn’t expect it, but it’s really good – quite an achievement I suppose.”
The APSE Apprentice and Trainee Awards scheme has been running for 12 years throughout the UK. The aim of the awards, which are open to councils across the UK, is to recognise the skills of future tradespeople, and the councils which invest in and provide first class training and employment initiatives in Modern Apprenticeship schemes.
Andrew, 20, has been with the Council since he left school and has enjoyed his apprenticeship. He said: “I really enjoy it. It’s the mixture of work-based learning and going to college as well.
“Working at the Council also means I’m getting a variety of training, at the moment I am training as a fire alarm technician, but I can also be doing full installations and maintenance work, and that could be in public buildings, houses or schools, so it’s a great place to start and train in different areas.”
Andrew is hoping to further his education with a Higher National Certificate in Electrical Engineering, and is looking for sponsorship for this.
Darlington Borough Council also received an award in recognition of its long term investment in the apprentice scheme and commitment to local employment.
Cyndi Hughes, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Congratulations to Andrew. He and his family should be very proud of his achievements.
“The Council is committed to increasing the opportunities for apprentices throughout the Borough. Apprenticeships are suitable for all sectors of business, not just the traditional trades, and can benefit all types of employers and employees. Andrew has shown just what can be achieved.”
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