Double competition success for Oakley

STUDENTS from Dumfries and Galloway College are celebrating after impressive performances in two prestigious construction skills competitions.

Leading the way is joinery apprentice Oakley White, who achieved success in both the SATTT competition and the regional qualifiers of the SkillBuild competition.

Oakley, who is completing his apprenticeship with AB Hastings, won the SATTT, which brings together Scottish timber trades students to compete in 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 run by the Construction Industry Training Board. Oakley is now waiting to see if he will progress to the UK national finals later this year.

He’s following in the footsteps of his dad, Gordon White, a joinery lecturer at the college, who competed in the SATTT competition as an apprentice in 1998.

Oakley said: “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 added: “As Oakley’s lecturer, I’m extremely proud of what he has achieved. 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.”

Meanwhile, joinery student Billy Smail achieving second place in his category of the SkillBuild regional competition, while Fraser Garner won the bricklaying element.

College principal Douglas Dickson said: “We are incredibly proud of Oakley, Billy and Fraser for representing the college so successfully.”