We at Swansea Bay Construction Support Group, are proud to reveal the shortlisted trade apprentice nominees for our 2025 Apprentice Awards, which will be held on June 26th at the Swansea.com Stadium. This annual event recognises the dedication, progress, and potential of apprentices across the South Wales construction industry. Meet this year’s outstanding trade apprentice nominees:
James Swain – CJ Construction (Bricklayer)
James has made a strong impression since joining CJ Construction, demonstrating a clear drive to progress and excel from the outset. Having relocated to the area with limited support, he secured his apprenticeship through sheer determination and has since proven himself both academically and on site. His college performance has been outstanding, complemented by his participation in various skills challenges. On site, James produces work of a meticulous standard—remarkable given that much of his training has been self-directed. His exceptional work ethic and positive attitude have had a noticeable impact on colleagues, both peers, and experienced trades. His dedication, professionalism, and strong influence on team morale signal a promising future in the industry
Ryan Williams – R&M (Plastering)
Since joining R&M Williams, Ryan has undergone a remarkable personal and professional transformation. Initially a shy and withdrawn young man who struggled to engage with peers both on site and at college, there were early concerns about his ability to progress in the industry. However, thanks to the dedicated support of his site mentors, Ryan has steadily grown in confidence and found his place within the trade. Now a hardworking and highly capable individual, he produces work of outstanding quality and maintains an exceptional work ethic. His growing self-belief has led to greater sociability and a clear sense of pride in his craft. Ryan’s journey from a quiet, uncertain apprentice to a confident and skilled tradesperson makes him a promising figure in both his career and personal life.
James Jones – John Weaver (Carpentry)
James has proven to be an outstanding Carpentry Apprentice at John Weaver Contractors, joining in 2021 as a second-year apprentice after gaining experience in multi-trades and scaffolding. He has contributed to a variety of high-profile projects, including the award-winning Hafod Morfa Copperworks and Pontardawe Arts Centre, and has consistently demonstrated professionalism, skill, and a strong work ethic. Now a year ahead in his apprenticeship, James has been nominated for both the company’s in-house awards and the national SkillBuild competition. His commitment to quality, investment in his own tools, and the respect he’s earned from colleagues and tutors alike mark him as a future leader in his trade.
Leo Ferguson – Swansea Council (Joiner)
Since joining Swansea Council, Leo has impressed the team with his strong carpentry skills and work ethic. In the workshop, he has marked out and built prototypes for staircases and pitched roofs, fitted skirtings, door linings, and semi-solid core doors, and regularly supports timber stock and manufacturing tasks. He has also assisted in fitting certified FD60s fire doors in sheltered and high-rise properties. On site at the Brondeg new build, Leo contributed to timber cladding, plaster boarding, and other carpentry tasks. Now in his first year at Neath and Port Talbot College, he’s been praised for his outstanding skills, timekeeping, and high-quality coursework. Leo shows great promise for a successful future in the trade.
Asleigh Johnson – Swansea Council (Plumbing)
Ashleigh Johnson has excelled during her apprenticeship with Swansea Council, showing outstanding commitment and capability. Having transitioned from a full-time nursing career during the COVID pandemic to plumbing, she is now in her third year of the EAL Level 3 Plumbing and Heating course. Ashleigh has quickly picked up technical skills, proving herself highly competent and confident on site, particularly impressive in a male-dominated trade. Alongside her apprenticeship, she also trains and competes as a professional Super Bantamweight boxer, balancing both demanding roles with discipline and determination. Her drive, work ethic, and ability to overcome challenges make her an exceptional apprentice.