Luke Emery, an apprentice at the Northern Irish construction firm Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd, has been named Apprentice of the Year at this years’ Federation of Master Builders’ National Master Builder Awards, and recognised for “going the extra mile” for his team and customers.
TV presenter and all-round building enthusiast Nick Knowles announced the winners to the delight of the Luke, his family, and the Lowry Building and Civil Engineering team, during the virtual ceremony held on September 24th.
The awards recognise building excellence, quality craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service, and are run by the Federation of Master Builders, the largest trade association in the UK construction sector which is this year celebrating its 80th anniversary.
A joinery apprentice, Luke’s successful nomination and victory in this hotly contested category, has been attributed to his eagerness to learn new skills and his commitment to his employer, as well as his natural aptitude and growing skill level in his chosen trade. Luke’s commitment to the role shone through during the COVID-19 pandemic, with him joining the firm’s essential workforce to contribute to vital maintenance for clients such as Northern Ireland Water.
Also highly praised for his interpersonal skills, Luke has been seen to work extremely well with other members of the Co. Tyrone-based team, and communicate clearly and effectively with the company’s clients. It was recognised that, alongside these skills, Luke also works well independently, understanding the importance of client satisfaction and using his initiative to deliver first class joinery works.
Reacting to his win, Apprentice of the Year, Luke Emery, said: “I’m delighted; it’s crazy! I have loved the variety of an apprenticeship, getting out and about on site. I would like to thank everyone at the team at Lowry Building and Civil Engineering who has welcomed me; and continues to accommodate me. It’s a good environment to work in. I’d like to thank my mentor, Tommy, in particular.”
Clive Betts MP, Chair of the Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee, and a National Judge for this category, said: “Looking at the commitment that Luke put in to gaining the range of qualifications in such a short period of time demonstrates his enthusiasm for the job he’s undertaking.”
Lee Jones, Deputy Editor at Professional Builder, and also a National Judge added: “To stand out in a field of very strong candidates was itself telling. Luke was a very well-rounded individual, he had determination, he had teamwork, he had communication. He also clearly had a lot of ambition, willing to progress and build on the skills and talent he has.”
Notes to editors
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing thousands of firms in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, the FMB is independent and non-profit making, lobbying for members’ interests at both the national and local level.
The FMB is a source of knowledge, professional advice and support for its members, providing a range of modern and relevant business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and offers a free Find a Builder service to consumers.
