The level two and level three apprentices were recognised for excelling academically and practically in the installation of alarms, CCTV, access control and a combination of these systems.
The overall winner for the 2016 awards is Max Wheeler of Chubb Fire & Security. Aged 21 Wheeler is a second-year apprentice based in Coventry.
Chubb Fire & Security’s Apprenticeship Programme Manager, Jim McSharry, nominated him for his drive and enthusiasm and natural aptitude for engineering. He has already completed all of his Level 2 field assessments successfully and is now keen to start at Level 3.
Max has also received positive feedback from his NVQ assessor and other company trainers and has been recognised as someone who is determined to be ‘best in class.’
“My dad contracted for a security company where I also worked for some time – my first taste of the industry, which I really enjoyed,” said Wheeler. “To be nominated by my colleagues at the Coventry branch was a real honour, a sign that the company is keen to invest in its young people.
“The support from the training provider, Training 2000 in Blackburn, and the company has been fantastic. To win is proof that I can accomplish all that I strive to achieve in everything I do.
“This award is a great boost to my career and future positions within the business.”
Max Wheeler of Chubb Fire & Security accepts his award at the BSIA annual luncheon
The runners-up awards went to Ben Reddington of Kings Security Systems and Jason O’Reilly of Fidelity Integrated Systems.
Reddington, 22, is a third-year apprentice who emulated his father by entering the security industry. Noted for his flair for IP and access control he has been commended for his willingness to go above and beyond and for being a real perfectionist. He is highly attentive in the classroom and is a willing contributor on the job, who applies himself diligently and with great enthusiasm.
Nineteen year old Jason O’Reilly decided to pursue a career in security following a work experience stint at Fidelity Integrated systems. Now a third-year apprentice O’Reilly has been keen and willing to learn new skills and advance his knowledge. Those who nominated him praised his professionalism and dedication – not just to his role as an installation engineer but in helping other divisions such as the service department.
“We are all well aware that in today’s challenging job market many young people may feel that a long term career is out of their reach,” said James Kelly, chief executive of the BSIA.
“As such, the BSIA and its members fully support the development of apprenticeships which offer positions to young people who wish to gain practical skills and knowledge in the security industry, allowing them to ultimately develop long-term careers in the sector.
“It’s always a pleasure to be able to recognise the outstanding talent displayed by our young apprentices, and I would like to congratulate all three of today’s winners on their achievements. They have all exhibited exceptional qualities throughout their apprenticeships, and no doubt have very bright futures within our industry.”
Said Tony Walsh, vice president of engineering and business leader at event sponsors Eaton Security: “As a business, Eaton Security places a high priority on training and development and are therefore proud to sponsor this award which recognises the achievements of installer apprentices.”
The award winners were presented with their awards at the BSIA’s Annual Luncheon on 12 July at the London Hilton on Park Lane.
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