Students from Dumfries & Galloway College are celebrating success after impressive performances in two prestigious construction skills competitions.
Joinery apprentice Oakley White achieved success in both the SATTT competition and the regional qualifiers of the SkillBuild competition, highlighting the high standard of construction training delivered at the College.
Oakley, who is completing his apprenticeship with AB Hastings, recently won the SATTT competition, which brings together some of Scotland’s most talented timber trades students to compete in demanding practical challenges designed to test precision, technical skill and craftsmanship.
He also secured first place in the regional round of the SkillBuild competition, the UK’s largest multi-trade construction skills competition delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board. Oakley is now awaiting confirmation on whether he will progress to the UK national finals later this year.
Adding to the achievement is a unique family connection. Oakley’s father, Gordon White, a Joinery Lecturer at Dumfries and Galloway College, previously competed in the SATTT competition himself as an apprentice in 1998.
Oakley White said: “I’m really proud to have won both the SATTT competition and the SkillBuild regional qualifier in the last eight weeks. It’s been a great experience that has helped build my confidence and improve my skills. I’d like to thank my lecturers, employer and everyone who supported me along the way.”
Gordon White, Joinery Lecturer at the College, said: “As Oakley’s lecturer, I’m extremely proud of what he has achieved by winning the SATTT competition and the SkillBuild regional qualifier. His hard work, commitment and attitude have all contributed to this success. On a personal level, seeing my son achieve this makes it even more special. Keep pushing yourself and stay focused, because this is only the beginning of what you can achieve.”
The College also celebrated further success in the SkillBuild regional competition, with joinery student Billy Smail achieving second place in his category, while bricklaying student Fraser Garner won the bricklaying element of the competition.
The achievements reflect the talent, dedication and hard work of the students, as well as the strong partnerships between the College and local employers supporting apprentices across the region.
Douglas Dickson, Principal of Dumfries and Galloway College, said: “These achievements are a fantastic reflection of the talent, determination and professionalism of our students, as well as the dedication of our teaching staff and employer partners. Competitions such as SATTT and SkillBuild give students the opportunity to test themselves against some of the best young tradespeople in the country and gain invaluable experience for their future careers. We are incredibly proud of Oakley, Billy and Fraser for representing the College so successfully.”
The SATTT and SkillBuild competitions are recognised across the construction industry for showcasing the next generation of skilled tradespeople, with competitors judged on technical ability, accuracy, safety and quality of finish under timed conditions.