Harry Fairbairn apprentice recognised at the Glasgow Modern Apprentice Awards
Jaspreet Rai was recognised at a ceremony held by the Trades House of Glasgow.
Jaspreet in branch with his award.
The Glasgow Modern Apprentice Awards 2017 (GMAA) took place on 6th June with a ceremony held at Trades Hall, with guests including the Lord Provost of Glasgow, Eva Bolander. Eight Modern Apprentices were shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year, with the winner leaving with a cheque for £1000.
Jaspreet Rai, who recently completed his three-year apprenticeship as a vehicle technician with Harry Fairbairn, was a finalist for the award. While he didn’t take away the main prize, he was presented with a new award announced on the night, the Overcoming Difficulties award, sponsored by the Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow.
He was given this recognition for his persistence in his search for a job after college, which ultimately led to an extended work experience placement at Harry Fairbairn before being offered an apprenticeship.
Jaspreet is aware of just how hard his fellow apprentices have worked, across every trade.
‘It’s great to be nominated for an award, never mind shortlisted. There were people from all different trades at the ceremony and it was great to see all sorts of young people doing well and being recognised for it.’
Having now qualified as a vehicle technician following three years of hard work, this feels like a fitting achievement. He added:
‘I’ve been on an amazing journey since I left school and now I’m getting commended for it, so it feels really good. Once I’d got my qualification from college, I spent about two years trying to get a job and it’s hard out there. I feel lucky to be in a branch of such a prestigious nature with all the high-tech equipment. It’s one of the best garages to work for.’
John Murphy, Senior Technician and Jaspreet’s mentor is proud but unsurprised at his award.
‘He deserves it because he’s worked hard for it. He’s probably the best apprentice that I’ve ever seen. He’s switched on all the time and that’s what you need if you want to be the best. He’s enthusiastic and willing to listen which is difficult for a lot of apprentices but not for him. He’s on his way and the sky’s the limit.’
Keith Brown, The Trades House Deacon Convener, recognised the benefits of Modern Apprenticeships as well as the outstanding work ethic of young people.
‘Young people are sometimes criticised for being work shy – the Glasgow Modern Apprentice Awards have shown the opposite to be true, with eight incredibly motivated and hardworking finalists exhibiting real dedication and skill in their specialist areas.’
Trades House was established in 1605 and today promotes projects in crafts, citizenships and apprenticeships as well as managing bursaries, student awards and community projects.