Aspiring Kilkenny apprentice electrician makes it through to Screwfix Trade Apprentice semi-finals

Aspiring electrician Nicholas Rossiter from Kilkenny is in with a chance of winning Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2025, after being selected from more than 2,270 applications to compete in this year’s semi-final.

Nicholas, who is completing an electrical apprenticeship in ATU Letterkenny, will now compete against 32 other apprentices from the UK and Ireland, who are currently completing apprenticeships across various construction trades. The semi-final stage will see them face a tough interview with Screwfix before finding out if they have made the final.

Just ten semi-finalists will be selected to compete for the title of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2025 at the two-day final of the competition in May.

Not only will the winner receive a prize bundle of technology, training and tools worth €10,000, but their college will also receive €2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers to spend on workshop equipment, helping to upskill tomorrow’s trade professionals.

“I’m really excited to have been shortlisted and I’m so proud to be representing Kilkenny in these national awards,” Nicholas said. “Ever since starting my apprenticeship in 2021, I have enjoyed every second of it. I love the variety, the challenge and the constant opportunity to upskill and learn new things. As someone who is always pushing myself and striving for excellence, I decided that I simply had to apply for this year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2025.

“I really hope my passion and dedication to the trade will come through in my interview, as to be selected to compete in the final of the competition would be an incredible opportunity.”

Jack Wallace, Marketing Director for Screwfix, says Screwfix Trade Apprentice is a fantastic way to recognise the hard work and dedication of today’s apprentices who are undertaking intensive, on-the-job training and qualifications to create tomorrow’s workforce of skilled tradespeople.

“This competition highlights how vital apprenticeships are in addressing the current skills shortage. We are committed to championing trade apprentices, the colleges that teach them and the employers that nurture them,” he said.

“Every year we are consistently amazed by the applications from trade apprentices across the UK and Ireland who are passionate, dedicated and committed to excelling in their chosen trade.

“To make it through to the semi-finals is a fantastic achievement. I wish this year’s semi-finalists the very best of luck in making it to the final.”

To find out more about the competition, visit Screwfix's website.
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