Ross Gorman, who works for McFadyens Contractors in Campbeltown, was awarded SPOA Plant Operator Apprentice of the Year, and Lara Mcleman, who works for Scot JCB in Muir of Ord, was named SPOA Plant Mechanic Apprentice of the Year.

The awards, co-sponsored by Currie Contractors, The Attachment Company and CITB, recognise the achievements of Ross and Lara as they progress through their CITB apprenticeships.

Chris Bushell, programme manager at the National Construction College, put forward Ross, saying: “One individual who stands out to me is Ross Gorman. Ross has consistently demonstrated dedication and professionalism throughout his time on the programme.

“A particularly memorable moment came during the summer at an open day at the college. I found Ross in the simulator room, where he was voluntarily teaching children and adults the basic controls of various machines. His mannerisms, patience and ability to engage with people of all ages were exemplary. Ross has conducted himself impeccably, demonstrating qualities that make him an excellent ambassador for Scottish apprentices.”

Fraser Coull, Andy Cowan and Martyn Paton, from the Plant Mechanic team at the National Construction College in Scotland, said of Lara: “It has been a pleasure to participate in Lara’s learning and professional journey. Lara is an extraordinary apprentice. Her commitment to the course, her ability to meet deadlines, and her consistent attendance have been outstanding. Lara has shown a methodical approach to practical tasks, often completing them with her own motivation before being asked. She consistently goes the extra mile. 

“From the moment Lara joined the Plant Mechanics course she has demonstrated a willingness to get her hands dirty and showcase both her academic and practical skills to her lecturers and peers in every task. Lara is always willing to support her peers, offering constructive feedback and inspiring others within the training programme. Her dedication and proactive approach in Plant Mechanics, make her a deserving winner of this award.”

James Currie, managing director at Currie Contractors, sponsor of the Plant Operator Apprentice of the Year, added: “When you hear the feedback from the team at the National Construction College, it fills me with hope that there are talented, hardworking young people out there who can have a successful career in the plant industry. Currie Contractors is proud to sponsor the Plant Operator Apprentice of the Year and we wish Ross all the best for the future.”

Speaking about his success, Ross said: “I am still taking it all in, I can’t express how much this means to me and how grateful I am to everyone at McFadyens for me giving me the opportunity. I would also like to thank all the tutors and staff at the National Construction College at Bircham Newton.”

William McFadyen, director at McFadyens Contractors, added: “McFadyens Contractors has long supported young people through apprenticeships. Ross embodies everything we look for in an apprentice and we could not be more proud of him for winning this award.”

On being named Plant Mechanic Apprentice of the Year, Lara said: “I am absolutely delighted with this award. I love my job and I really value everything I am learning on my apprenticeship. I am grateful to Scot JCB for the opportunity.”

Lara’s employer, Iain Bryant, joint managing director at Scot JCB, added: “Lara fitted into the team at Muir of Ord immediately and her commitment and ability have really shone through. It’s fantastic that she’s been recognised like this and we’re proud that she works for Scot JCB.”

Sponsors of the Plant Mechanic Apprentice of the Year, Laura and William Forrest from The Attachment Company commented: “We are delighted to sponsor the SPOA Apprentice of the Year Awards and are proud to support the upcoming, young talent coming through in our industry. We would like to congratulate Lara on her award and wish both her and Ross all the very best for the future.” 

The Apprentice of the Year Awards have become a highlight of the SPOA’s Annual Dinner. Speaking about the winners, John Sibbald, President of the SPOA, said: “I would like to congratulate Ross and Lara on being named the SPOA’s Apprentices of the Year. I sincerely hope that their success will inspire other young people to follow a career in plant.”

In recognition of their achievements, Ross and Lara can also look forward to a trip to Bauma, the world’s biggest construction equipment exhibition, taking place in Munich, Germany, in April. The winning apprentices will stay at a 4-star hotel and enjoy a VIP experience whilst there.