NRC Lecturer, Trevor Kernohan commented "Robert is a dedicated, hard working apprentice who is fully deserving of his success and credit must also go to his employer Mr Rodney Turtle."
Ronnie Laverty, Head of Faculty for Built Environment & Engineering at NRC added, “We are over the moon with these results. It’s a great opportunity for our talented young trainees to demonstrate their skills and their ability to perform at the highest level. A big thank you must also go the Lecturers who have supported both Robert and Ryan in preparation for this prestigious competition”.
Robert and Ryan could now be invited to join the short list for the WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017. Being shortlisted would give him them the opportunity of representing the UK at the WorldSkills - the world’s largest international skills competition.
Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen Farry commended the Northern Ireland medal winners for excelling in their skill area. “This is an excellent achievement for Northern Ireland. It is a great opportunity to showcase and celebrate the high level of skills we possess and the impressive talent of our workforce. It reflects the high standards of training in our colleges and the commitment to excellence demonstrated by the competitors. Northern Ireland should feel very proud of such an inspiring performance on the UK stage.
“It takes hard work, determination and a high level of skill to compete against the UK’s most talented apprentices and learners. Northern Ireland enjoys an impressive track record at skills competitions at regional, national and world level, and our local competitors’ success at the Skills Shows builds on this outstanding record of achievement.”
Over 75,000 people attended the Skills Show and watched 588 apprentices and learners battle it out in 64 skills competitions, ranging from Forensic Science to Floristry, with the aim of being named ‘UK Champion’ in their chosen skill. Visitors to the Skills Show were also able to ‘Have a Go’ at different skills and meet with employers and advisors to receive the latest information on apprenticeships and other training opportunities.
