A CEREMONY was held to recognise the achievements of apprentices in Glasgow over the last year.

For more than 20 apprentices from City Building have been recognised for their achievements over the past year at the construction firm’s annual awards ceremony.

It was held in the Banqueting Hall of the City Chambers and saw more than 300 people team up to celebrate the hardworking young men and women.

A total of 22 accolades were awarded in categories ranging from Best Electrician, to Best Plumber and Best Administrator.

One of the most notable stars of the evening was 21-year-old heating engineer Jonnie Donnelly who was named Overall Apprentice of the Year. Judges were impressed by his technical abilities, commendable work ethic, positive attitude to college courses and knowledge of construction sites.

Jonnie, who was also shortlisted at the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) Awards, has been working on some of City Building’s biggest developments including the £18million Clyde Campus and £12m Broomhill Primary School, where he uses emerging technologies to install heating and ventilation.

On the night, winners were rewarded with prizes donated from industry partners Grahams, Edmundson Electrical, Craighead Building Supplies, Bell Decorating Group, Headlam and BSS Supplies.

Councillor Greg Hepburn, chairman of City Building, said: “At City Building, we understand the importance of providing our young people with the training and confidence they need to succeed.

“Currently, we see around 94% of our apprentices complete their training, compared to an industry standard of just 75%.

“Part of this success comes from our commitment to giving apprentices thorough hands on training, as well as the responsibility to take ownership of projects.”

Dr Graham Paterson, executive director, added: “I am very proud of the calibre of apprentices we employ and I would like to congratulate all those who were shortlisted, as well as offer my appreciation to the instructors who are supporting these young men and women to become the next generation of industry professionals.”

City Building is the largest employer of apprentices in Scotland and currently trains more than 320 individuals across various construction trades.

Since 2006 the firm has provided 1102 apprenticeships, with 70% going on to retain full time employment at City Building.

The company also employs a quarter of Scotland’s female craft apprentices.