Lisa Murphy (19), a second year apprentice painter and decorator with City Building (Glasgow) LLP, has won the Trades House of Glasgow Modern Apprentice Awards 2016 (GMAA), now in its 10th year.
Lisa, who lives in Shettleston, Glasgow, was presented with a cheque for £1,000, an inscribed quaich and the GMAA Cup, which remains on display at the Trades Hall of Glasgow in Glassford Street, home to the Trades House and its 14 incorporated crafts. Taking second prize of £500 was Fraser Clark (23) of BAE Systems Naval Ships. The company’s apprentices have been finalists and winners in the GMAA initiative a number of times over the years, due to its high level of candidate applications. This year, Fraser was one of two BAE Systems employees in the final six.
Third place and a cheque for £250 went to Abigail Planck (19), an apprentice with Rothesay-based Bute Fabrics Ltd. She was commended on her progression throughout her apprenticeship both in personal and professional development.
Dr Graham Paterson, executive director at City Building (Glasgow) said: “I would like to congratulate Lisa on winning the Trades House Glasgow Modern Apprentice of the Year Award. During her time with us, she has proved a valuable and hard-working member of the team, getting involved in high profile projects including the World Gymnastics Championships and prestigious Paul Smith art installation at the Lighthouse Gallery.
“City Building is very proud to support and develop anyone who demonstrates the drive and enthusiasm it takes to succeed, which Lisa clearly has. I’m confident that she has a bright career in front of her.”
Lisa, who was in the running with five other finalists, said: “It’s a great surprise to have won Modern Apprentice of the Year. I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship so far and all the opportunities that have come along with it. This is just the icing on the cake.
“I’ve had great support from my trainers and gained experience working on some interesting projects such as the “Hello My Name is Paul Smith” exhibition. I want to keep learning so I can get my qualification and hopefully get the chance to work on other high profile assignments in the future.”
The GMAA ceremony was hosted in the Trades Hall by Deacon Convener of the Trades of Glasgow, Ruth Maltman, and awards Co-ordinator, Ken Dalgleish.
Commenting on Lisa’s win, Deacon Convener Ruth Maltman said: “Lisa’s journey has been one of success and inspiration for herself and others around her. She has shown dedication and passion for the Modern Apprenticeship programme and her confidence and determination shone through. She fully deserves this award and won against very strong competition.”
Together with family, friends and supporters, the six finalists joined members of the Trades House, as the 2016 prizewinners were announced. Judges commented on the exceptionally high calibre of applications and the decision was taken to award all finalists with a certificate of commendation.
GMAA Coordinator, Ken Dalgleish, said: “The applications this year have been of a high standard and reflect the diversity of organisations embracing the opportunity that the Modern Apprentice programme offers young people from all walks of life. This year we welcomed applicants from the textile industry and several individuals who had used the Modern Apprentice scheme to completely change career direction. We congratulate all participants this year and thank all their supporters for making the ceremony such a motivational occasion.”
GMAA 2016 was sponsored by the Incorporations of Hammermen, Weavers, Tailors, Cooper and Masons.
Pictured: Trades House of Glasgow Modern Apprentice Awards winner and runner up with Deacon Convener Ruth Maltman.
