Pembrokeshire College carpentry and joinery NVQ 3 student Rhydian Williams returned inspired from competing in the SkillBuild British final in Leeds recently.
He was placed in the top six after two-and-half-days of competition where regional finalists had to demonstrate their skills and accuracy to make and finish a door.
Lecturers and students in his class were very proud of his achievement and several students are interested in taking part in the SkillBuild competition next year as a result of Rhydian's endeavours.
Rhydian is also determined to enter the competition again. "It was a really good experience and will be good for my CV. I would love to enter next year after gaining more experience as a joiner."
"This year's winner is 21 and had been in the competition three years running, so in theory I have another three opportunities to enter," commented 18-year-old Rhydian.
"I'm very fortunate as my employer, Bugols of Narberth, is very supportive and Carl my boss gave me the week off to compete as part of my work experience."
SkillBuild competitions are open to all 17-21-year-olds currently training in construction through further education colleges or work-based apprenticeships.
Rhydian has gained a huge amount of knowledge and experience as a modern apprentice with Bugols of Narberth that combines attending college for two days a week in the first year and one day a week in the second and third year to achieve NVQs in carpentry and joinery at levels two and three.
For more information about gaining qualifications and training in construction attend the Pembrokeshire College open day on Wednesday, November 12, from 5 until 8 pm.
At the open day, potential students and parents can view the facilities and equipment at the new £3.1m construction centre and chat to tutors about suitable courses for careers in the construction industry. More details can be found on the college website http://www.pembs.ac.uk/construction">www.pembs.ac.uk/construction.