Elgin apprentice named plant operator apprentice of the year at awards dinner in Glasgow
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AN Elgin plant operator worker has been crowned plant operator apprentice of the year.
Sandy Coull, who works for Billy Miller in Elgin, was recognised at the Scottish Plant Owners Association's (SPOA) dinner held earlier this month.
The awards recognise the achievements of apprentices as they progress through their Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) apprenticeships.
Sandy was put forward for the award due to his work ethic and eagerness to learn.
Christopher Blake, curriculum manager at CITB Plant, said: "The 2023/2024 award winners were unanimously chosen by their respective tutors in both England and Scotland.
“Sandy was noted as being exceptional. A diligent learner, executing tasks after being demonstrated or explained them just once.
"Always on time for both practical and theory sessions at college in Norfolk, this trend continues when back home at work where he displays natural plant operator skills on every job."
Billy Miller, managing director at Billy Miller Contractor and Plant Hire, also congratulated Sandy on his award success.
He said: "I am delighted for Sandy who is a conscientious and hard-working individual. He takes all his training seriously and understands the importance of learning his skills.
“We are keen to get more young people involved in the construction industry in an attempt to address the shortage of labour and ageing workforce. There are many directions to go forward in, all leading to the potential career progression option of site management in the future.”
The Apprentice of the Year Awards have become a highlight of the SPOA’s annual dinner.
Speaking after the awards, John Sibbald, the association's president, said: “The SPOA is working hard to attract young people into our industry, and the annual Apprentice of the Year Awards play a really important role in this.
"My congratulations to Sandy, a worthy winner and I hope that he inspires others to follow a career in plant."
