Fochabers firm's electrician is named Apprentice of the Year
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A young electrician who works for a Fochabers company has been recognised for his exceptional talent by being crowned the 2023 Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) Apprentice of the Year, in conjunction with Edmundson Electrical.
John Baxter, who is from Macduff and is employed by Muirton Control and Automation, was presented with an award and certificate in recognition of his achievement and also received a cheque for £1000.
Fiona Harper, the Secretary of the SJIB, said: “The SJIB Apprentice of the Year awards celebrate the best new talent in our industry and reinforce the fact that apprentices are the sector’s great hope for the future.
“John is a remarkable young electrical professional who has demonstrated a tenacity and determination to succeed in his chosen career and has now acquired skills which are not only future-proofed but internationally-transferrable.
“He has shown both ability and dedication throughout his training and we are delighted that John has now been recognised for his exceptional talent.”
Derek Allen, Scottish regional director of Edmundson Electrical, said: “John should be rightfully proud of his achievements, and his employers, college lecturers and training officers from the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) should also be praised for continuing to help develop the talent of tomorrow.”
John is now a qualified electrician after completing his studies at North East Scotland College’s Fraserburgh Campus.
He was presented with his award by Alick Smith, leader of the employers’ side of the SJIB National Board and convenor of the SELECT Employment Affairs Committee
John (25) said: “Undertaking my apprenticeship has been a great challenge, but also a terrific opportunity and to have my hard work recognised in this way is more than I could ever have hoped for.
“I would like to thank not only my lecturers, whose patience and understanding was very reassuring, and my employers, who have been unfailingly supportive, but also all the time-served tradesmen I have worked with. Their good-humoured support has been crucial.”
Ewen McDonald, director of Muirton Control, said: “John has shown from day one that he has what it takes to be an excellent electrician.
"He has been a fast, effective worker and this award is no more than he deserves.”
Founded in 1969 by electrical trade association SELECT and Unite the Union, the SJIB’s duties include regulating between employers and employees, providing benefits for people engaged in the industry, and stimulating industry progress.
In addition, it has oversight of employment, skills and proficiency, health and safety competence, wages and welfare benefits across the electrical industry in Scotland.
Edmundson Electrical is an electrical wholesaler that serves Scotland from more than 37 locations.
Its customer base includes electrical contractors and engineers, industrial companies, facilities management, government agencies and local authorities.
