Huge congratulations to Daniel Alford for being the winner of the highly respected Ron Simmonds Construction Trade Apprentice of the Year Award 2024. Employed by ME Contracting Ltd and supported by local provider The Focus Training Group, Daniel is undertaking an Advanced Level 3 in Installation and Maintenance Electrician apprenticeship.
Whilst attending the Building Plymouth Early Careers Fair in March 2022, Daniel met ME Contracting and then attended an interview hosted by the employer at Skills Launchpad Plymouth. After being offered the opportunity, Daniel’s apprenticeship journey began in September 2022, and it was clear from the beginning that he had the right work ethic and positive attitude needed to succeed. He has consistently displayed outstanding achievements in his technical examinations, having passed all exams to date with a distinction! Nominated by Brendon Houghton, Director of ME Contracting Ltd, Daniel has been described as showing exceptional personal qualities and work skills, making him a very well-liked and valued member of the team.
Brendon said: “From the outset it was clear that Dan had some standout qualities which we knew would form great foundations for his future career. We employed Dan not just with a view to him completing an apprenticeship and becoming an electrician, but with the potential to develop much further as the MEC business grows.” It is these qualities and positive attitude that has enabled Daniel to be involved with several high-profile projects, including the construction of a new High Voltage substation for Derriford Hospital, and two community initiatives, installing LED lighting for a community swimming pool, and sourcing and distributing food for the Plymouth Foodbank Oasis Project.
For his role in the substation at the hospital, Daniel was highly commended by both the on-site team and the client for its quality and the way it was completed. Daniel showed an eagerness to work on all projects, showing his commitment to learning and willingness to succeed. Daniel is also excelling with the technical element of his learning, transferring this to his work on site, where he can pick up new skills very quickly.
In his latest college learner review, Dan’s tutor reported that he is showing an excellent understanding and has excellent timekeeping and attendance. Brendon continued: “Dan’s commitment to learning and development has been clear throughout his time with us, and it has been a pleasure for all of us at MEC to work alongside Dan. He is well deserving of this award.”
Here’s what Daniel had to say: “From first meeting my employer ME Contracting at the Building Plymouth Early Careers Fair in 2022 to today, I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship hands-on experience and training provided d by Focus Training. Thank you for the recognition and I hope winning this award provides a springboard for my career.”
