SkillELECTRIC is the premier skills competition for the UK’s electrical industry for best young electrician. The competition provides a platform to showcase best electrical apprentices and newly qualified electricians from across the UK participate in six regional heats to win a place in the competition’s outstanding final.
The top eight candidates from these heats then compete in a two-day electrical installation challenge under the watchful eyes of a group of industry experts, who determine which of the finalists wins the gold medal and the title of the UK’s best young electrician. Medals are also awarded for second and third place in the competition.
The regional competition requires competitors to assemble a number of electrical circuits, complete with the installation of associated power and switched components. The circuits will be tested for safety and accuracy, and must perform as set out in the specification. Candidates have to demonstrate that they have a clear understanding of the technical drawings through to completion.
This year’s competition, held at Southern Regional College, the top three places were secured by South West College candidates; 1st Place Piaras McErlean, Dungannon campus; 2nd Declan Goulding, Omagh Campus and 3rd place, David McHugh Skills Centre, Enniskillen.
This was an unparalleled result, for one college to gain the top 3 places in a regional heat of this competition and in addition, to have 5 out of 10 candidates to represent their college at the NI completion which showcases the best apprentices from all of the colleges in NI.
Michael Brogan, Curriculum Manager of Training indicated “We at SWC are delighted that we had five apprentices out of the ten that competed at NI SkillELECTRIC this year, but to achieve 1st, 2nd and 3rd places overall is unprecedented in this particular event, I believe that it is down to the dedication of our staff, employers and the apprentices involved, that this magnificent achievement has taken place”.