Ayrshire apprentice named Scotland’s best

Dec 23 2011 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

AN Ayrshire engineer has been named Scotland’s top apprentice.

Aeronautical starlet Jamie Gray was honoured at Scotland’s Modern Apprenticeship Awards.

Judges presented Jamie, who works at Prestwick’s Spirit AeroSystems, with the Outstanding Achievement Award.

The 22-year-old was a finalist in the Construction and Production Apprentice of the Year category of the Awards which were held at Glasgow’s Science Centre.

The tenth annual awards night showcased the achievements of employers, apprentices and organisations who’ve helped develop Scotland’s skills and economy.

Jamie, a former Crosshouse Hospital catering assistant, admitted he was “stunned but absolutely ecstatic” when he received the top award.

He said: “I was amazed when I heard my name being called out.

“I was a quiet boy from a quiet village but was pushed to go for my dream job and I got the job and realised my dream.

“I would say to anyone to go for what they want, especially if it is an apprenticeship, to go for it and give it 110 per cent,” he said.

Now a top engineer, Jamie explained: “I was always interested in engineering and applied for an apprenticeship with Spirit AeroSystems but didn’t think I had a chance.

“I was so pleased when I got the job.”

Since he qualified, Jamie has continued to complete work-related training programmes and plans to study for an HND in Quality Management.

Skills Development Scotland’s chief executive, Damien Yeates, said: “Jamie is a very worthy winner and it is great that his hard work and commitment to his apprenticeship has been recognised with this award.

“He should be proud of his achievements and I am sure it will be one of many honours he will receive in his career.

“I would also like to congratulate Jamie’s employers Spirit AeroSystems for their sterling support during his apprenticeship.”