Top Apprentice Wins 2016 ECA Edmundson Award

Chris Bowker Ltd apprentice crowned ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year 2016.

Harry Bartle (pictured centre) has been recognised as one of the top electrical and building services apprentices in the country, after winning the coveted 2016 ‘ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year Award’.

Harry, who works for Morecambe-based ECA member-firm Chris Bowker Ltd, overcame fierce competition from the eventual three runners-up. The judges stated that he would make an excellent ambassador for the industry over the next 12 months.

“It’s an absolute honour for me to be recognised as ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year. The training and experience I have received from Chris Bowker has been first class and it’s been a pleasure to represent the company.”

During the awards ceremony held in London on Wednesday 21 September, Harry was awarded a cash prize and a state-of-the-art tool kit, among other prizes. The 21-year-old will also take part in a study tour sponsored by leading manufacturer Schneider, in which he will visit their facility in the French Alps.

“It’s an absolute honour for me to be recognised as ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year,” said Harry. “The training and experience I have received from Chris Bowker has been first class and it’s been a pleasure to represent the company.”

Harry will also take on an ambassadorial role over the coming months, in which he will represent the ECA as part of efforts to encourage young people to join the industry.

The three runners-up, who each won £500 and a contractor’s toolkit, were as follows:

• Luke Towers – Eaton Electrical Ltd
• Joshua Lee – P & R Hurt Electrical & Mechanical Services
• Thomas Murray – Blackbourne Integrated M&E

The winner was chosen following a rigorous independent judging process, which involved regional and national stages. The four finalists were judged by a panel of industry experts.

ECA CEO, Steve Bratt commented: “We’re delighted that Harry has deservedly won this year’s ECA Edmundson Award for Apprentice of the Year – a real indication of the talent that exists in our industry.

“Congratulations also to Chris Bowker Ltd, who are leading advocates of high quality training and career development across the electrical and building services industry.”

Edmundson Director, Mark Felber added: “We are delighted to have sponsored the ECA Edmundson Electrical Apprentice of the Year Award for the last 42 years.

“Edmundson has a long established policy of developing young people within our sector through both our apprenticeship and graduate schemes.

“The electrical and electronics industry continues to lead the way in offering great opportunities for young people to develop a rewarding and enjoyable career.”