15.11.2007

Crane apprentice scoops award

Hewden, the UK’s largest plant-hire company, saw 11 apprentices graduate from its apprenticeship programme last week. Held at the new Finning Academy in Cannock, the ceremony was the culmination of a four-year training programme earning the apprentices an NVQ in Plant Mechanics, and the title of qualified Service Engineer.

The ceremony also included the presentation of the Apprentice of the Year award, given to the one apprentice who clearly excelled throughout the four-year programme. This year’s winner was Mark McLeod from the Edinburgh Cranes depot, nominated by depot manager Jimmy Donnachie.

Donnachie said: “I can confidently say that Mark is the best apprentice I’ve had for the last 10 years – there are not many like him. He is a great ambassador for the scheme and an exceptional role model for other apprentices entering the industry.”
Please register to see all images

Brian Sherlock (L) presents the top award to Mark McLeod

Hewden currently has 70 apprentices at various stages within the apprenticeship programme, which includes attendance at the national construction college on a block release basis.

Christine Hardy, training development manager at Finning UK, Hewden’s parent company, said: “Our Service Engineers are critical to the success of our business now and in the future, and I’m delighted to see such a talented group of people progressing through our company”