On Thursday (25th June) we marked our fifth year SBCSG Awards, bringing together apprentices, employers and industry partners at Swansea.com Stadium to celebrate the next generation of construction talent across South Wales.
The evening shone a spotlight on apprentices and new entrants working across Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot, recognising the progress being made at the start of their careers in the industry, alongside the employers supporting their development.
Hosted by beloved Welsh singer-songwriter and composer, Mal Pope, our event also served as a reminder of the opportunities available within construction, highlighting real success stories and encouraging more people to consider the sector as a long-term career path.
On the night, awards were presented to standout apprentices from our member companies including ASW Property Services, John Weaver Contractors, Morganstone, R&M Williams, Craftsman Flooring, Spartan Scaffolding Solutions, Swansea Council and Tilbury Douglas.
While all shortlisted nominees were recognised for their achievements, a number of individual awards were also presented to highlight exceptional performance, commitment, and contribution within their roles. Liam Miles was named Best Technical Apprentice, Nathan Taylor received Best Trade Apprentice, and Jack Gravell was awarded Best Scaffolding Apprentice.
Our awards night was supported by leading names in the construction and training sector, with Alpha Safety Training and PCR Global as headline sponsors, alongside Barry Training Services as Trophy Sponsor.
John Jones, our Vice-Chairman, said:
“The Awards are always a great opportunity to step back and recognise the exceptional effort being put in by apprentices across the region. What stands out each year is not just their progress, but the commitment from employers and training providers who continue to invest in developing new talent and creating real opportunities within the industry.”
Euros Griffiths, our Training Officer, added:
“Seeing apprentices develop over the course of their training is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. Many of them are learning on live projects from day one, and it’s that
combination of support, real-life experience and willingness to learn that really helps drive their progress and prepares them for long-term careers in the sector.”
Alongside the awards, a raffle and auction raised funds for two local charities, Hands Up for Downs and The Jac Lewis Foundation.
Hands Up for Downs provides support for families, carers and children living with Down Syndrome, helping them access essential services and community support. The Jac Lewis Foundation is a charity providing mental health support and access to vital resources. Named in memory of Jac Lewis, who sadly lost his life to suicide, it works to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and deliver counselling, education programmes and community outreach services.
A total of £1000 was raised on the night, with all funds going directly towards the ongoing work of both charities in the local community.