Pembrokeshire-based Wyn Harries, of Harries Design Management, has received the coveted title of 'Welsh Construction Ambassador of the Year' from ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council for construction.

Wyn, who is the owner of Harries Design Management, received the title of Welsh Construction Ambassador of the Year for his commitment to inspiring West Wales' young learners to explore a career in the construction and built environment sector.

Wyn Harries has supported a number of work experience placements at his company, has arranged for college and school students to undergo site visits, as well as going into primary and secondary schools to give presentations, all to show the wealth of opportunities available to these young people in the industry.

There was one Year 13 student that he took on for work experience one day per week, which resulted in a longer term work experience placement at the company and he is now sponsoring the student through her architecture course at university.

Wyn also gives up his free time to judge young apprentices competing at UK skills events like skillscompetition Wales, an annual series of contests to find the nation's most talented trainees in many different occupations.

Wyn explained: "I've found it very rewarding being a ConstructionSkills Construction Ambassador. By sharing my experience with these young people and introducing them to construction, I hope to instil in them some of the passion I have for a career in the industry. I did not expect to receive this accolade; I was up against some of the best in Wales and it is a great honour to be recognised for my efforts in continuing the great reputation of the Welsh construction industry."

ConstructionSkills Wales director, Wyn Prichard, commented: "Wyn's support in the many activities ConstructionSkills organises in Wales to encourage young people into the industry is invaluable. Wyn had fierce competition for this award from some of the biggest and best construction companies in Wales, however as a small business he has given up a lot of personal time to help inspire young people to join the construction industry. He is a great role model and his experience and knowledge is indispensible to not only ConstructionSkills, but the young people he meets and the industry in Wales as a whole."

As the Sector Skills Council for construction, ConstructionSkills works towards delivering a safer, more professional and fully qualified construction workforce in Wales and Construction Ambassadors such as Wyn play a crucial role in encouraging young people to consider a career in the industry.

For more information about the training and business support available from ConstructionSkills, please call 01656 655226 or visit http://www.cskills.org">www.cskills.org.