Seán into semi-final of Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition

Seán O’Shea, a promising apprentice in Heating and Plumbing Engineering from Adrigole, is down to the last 33 after reaching the semi-final stage of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024.

Marking a decade of the nationwide competition that shines a light on the UK and Ireland’s very best future talent, this year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice received more than 1,800 applications.

Entries have now been whittled down to just 33, all of whom are in with the chance of being crowned Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024 at the national final in May.

Seán O’Shea (18), who is currently studying heating and plumbing engineering at Cork College FET with Glenview Heating says: “I can’t believe I’ve reached the semi-finals of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024.

“I love plumbing there’s always loads to learn, I just completed phase 2 of my plumbing apprenticeship receiving distinctions in every exam, theory, and practical so far. I am part of a family-run plumbing business which I strive to take over in the future once I finish my apprenticeship.

“My long-term goals are pretty set in stone for me as I think it is very important to set targets in life and try my best to accomplish them. I believe this helps to build self-confidence.

“I’m always trying to encourage people to do trades and let them know how beneficial they are no matter what age or gender you are, whether this be through social media sources such as podcasts, or radio talks or just in a face-to-face conversation.

“I’m very grateful to all the plumbers I work with who are willing to share their knowledge with me so I can further progress throughout this trade.”

He also mentions his father’s business, Glenview Heating, which has helped him greatly to progress to the next level in his career as a plumbing and heating engineer.

This year’s final will return to London in May, where the top 10 apprentices will face a panel of industry experts to showcase why they believe they should be this year’s champion. Only one will be crowned Screwfix Trade Apprentice and receive a career-boosting €10,000 trade bundle made up of tools, tech, and training – everything they need to excel in their chosen trade.

The judging panel includes representatives from Screwfix, the Federation of Master Builders, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, and the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting.

In addition, Astrid Arnold, winner of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2023, will also be at the final to talk about her own experiences and share some of the exciting projects she’s been a part of since being crowned champion.

Jack Wallace, marketing director for Screwfix, says: “The skills gap facing our industry is showing no signs of slowing down, so it remains as crucial as ever to highlight just how rewarding a career in the trades can be.

“Once again, the calibre of entries this year has been amazing, and every one of the 33 semi-finalists are a shining example of how hard work and passion can take you anywhere. Regardless of who makes the final 10, they should all be incredibly proud of their achievement, and I have no doubt they’ve inspired even more people to consider a career in the trades.

“I wish everyone the best of luck and look forward to the final in May.”

To find out more about the Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition, visit www.screwfix.ie/landingpage/tradeapprentice