Billington Structures apprentice Jack Ridgeway recognised in the Metal Apprentice of the Year awards 2023
We are delighted to announce Jack Ridgeway, Metal Fabricator Apprentice, here at Billington Structures attended the Metals Apprentice of the Year 2023 dinner, and on the evening was awarded the Craft runner up, Metals Apprentice of the Year 2023.
The Metals Apprentice of the Year is two annual awards to recognise exceptional development, high level skills and commitment to progression, amongst apprentices in the metals industry.
Jack started his apprenticeship 5 years ago, demonstrating his commitment to learn his new trade and quickly became an important member of the fabrication team. Because of his determination, willingness to help others, and dedication to his studies and at Billington Structures, it was easy for the company to put him forward as a Metals Apprentice winning candidate.
Speaking after the awards ceremony, Jack said: “I can’t believe that I have been chosen as runner up Metal Apprentice of the Year 2023. There are so many apprentices doing great things across engineering, so to be given this acknowledgement makes me really proud.”
During my time as an apprentice, I have developed more as a person, becoming more confident in myself and my abilities. With my confidence growing through the apprenticeship, I now really enjoy helping others with their drawings, as I feel I add value with my training and learning. I want to thank my colleagues and Managers for the support throughout my apprenticeship. I really enjoy working with everyone at Billington Structures and look forward to developing into more responsible roles for many years to come.”
“For anyone thinking about taking up a career in STEM, I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship at Billington Structures. My placement has led to so many incredible opportunities, which I will look back on fondly and which will hopefully lead to a long and enjoyable career.”
Paul Vowden, Fabrication manager at Billington Structures said of Jack: “We were so proud to see Jack be recognised for his commitments through the Metals Apprentice of the Year award. Jack demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to his educational study. Jack takes it upon himself to provide exceptional support and service to Billingtons Structures, with a can-do attitude, supporting his colleagues with his learning knowledge, and going above and beyond to support his team by asking always how he can help. His determination, willingness to help others, and dedication to his study as well as Billington Structures, made him an excellent nominee and leader for other Apprentices. Well done, Jack.”
Elizabeth Bonfield, Assistant Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Tin Plate alias Wire Workers said: “Jack did a great job and is obviously an asset to Billington Structures. Jack showed great maturity in his interview. His commitment to the quality of work he produced was evident and he was very proud of being an Apprentice with Billiingtons. His demonstrated how he was able to complete work independently and also now was starting to assist others and offer advice. A very worthy finalist and runner up in the Craft Category of the Metals Apprentice of the Year 2023 awards, I wish him continued success in his work..”
Jack is currently on our Metal fabricator and improving operational performance Apprenticeship Scheme.
Each year we recruit for a range of opportunities that suit a diverse range of career interests. Close relationships are being maintained with many local education providers, with continuing support being given to local colleges and Universities.
We encourage our team to continue our commitment by getting involved in educational career days, hosting school visits at its sites, and seeking to develop talent from a young age, with a range of internal training programmes across all departments of the business. Billington continues as an advocate, promotor, and contributor to the British Constructional Steelwork Association’s CRAFT apprentice programme.
Our trainees and apprentices are part of the team and receive support and mentoring from qualified experienced professionals across the business to develop into their chosen role. Find out more about our schemes.
Now in its 24th year, the Metals Industry Apprentice of the Year competition was sponsored by The Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers alias Wire Workers this year.
