‘Electricians of the Year’ receive grand prize from local firm 

Two aspiring Electricians have been named the ‘Electricians of the Year’ and have received a grand prize awarded by Watkins Plumbing and Heating. 

Sophia Wilson and Lindan Raby-Kirkland, both studying Level 2 Electrical Installation, won a certificate and a monetary prize of £100 by the local plumbing and heating firm. They also won a nine-piece hand tool set bought by the College, equipped with screwdrivers and pliers. 

On hand to present the awards from Watkins Plumbing and Heating were Frances Williams and her son, Fraser Williams, who have a personal connection to the College.  

Llewellyn Williams, Frances’ husband worked in the Electrical department over 15 years ago. In honour of his memory and wanting to contribute to the careers of future Electricians, Frances donates a monetary award for achievement each year. 

Highlighted as the department’s top students for 2023/2024 due to significant growth in their studies, they’re both now undertaking progression routes into higher qualifications. 

Lindan has excelled in his practical skills this year and can progress on to the T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction course. 

He said: “For me, a highlight this year has been all the practical work that we do, as I’m able to see how I can problem-solve and how much my knowledge has grown. I was very happy to win – initially I thought they had called my name by mistake – it was such a nice surprise! It’s been great to go from not knowing much to now being able to wire in whole installation bays.”

For Sophia, this award was a recognition of how she has developed during the course. She can now work under pressure and meet tough deadlines. 

She said: “When I started, I didn’t know anything about electrical work or the industry, and now I’m able to understand quite complicated wiring systems. In a recent exam I completed all the tasks with plenty of time left and was surprised at how well I achieved under pressure. Receiving this award was great, as it’s nice to know I’ve done a good job. I’m looking forward to getting some more tools with the prize money.” 

Martin Kerry, Programme Director for Building Services at EKC Canterbury College, played a key part in recognising the duo’s success. He said: “They both deserve this award as they’ve worked hard in the face of adversity and overcome challenges to get to where they are today.”

Upon handing out the awards, Fraser Williams from Watkins Plumbing and Heating said: “Having studied the course myself, I understand what a fantastic opportunity it is to help craft a career. We will continue to support the course in the hopes of inspiring the students to do the same, just as my father did.”

For Lindan and Sophia, this award is helping them look forward to their future careers and aspirations in the world of Construction. 

Lindan hopes to join the Army after his College studies. He said: “I’m interested in learning more about the artillery systems used and how these have changed over time. It’ll be good to be able to take the technical skills I’ve learnt here and put them to use in a practical career.” 

The experiences and skills in College mean that Sophia can become an all-round tradesperson, as she now starts learning more trades to grow her career this September. Studying the Level 2 Certificate in Plumbing, she aspires to work with renewable technologies in her future.  

She said: “I find solar panel technology and wind turbines interesting such as seeing how everything’s run. The industry changes so much which I think would be exciting to be part of.” 

There are a range of industry links in the Construction and Built Environment department, with plenty of opportunities and experiences for students to get involved with and grow their talents. 

If you’d like to learn more about starting your Construction career at EKC Canterbury College, you can explore our Construction courses today.