Pendennis Shipyard apprentice Adam Hall (aged 22) was crowned the best in his trade in the UK, after winning the cabinet making section of the World Skills competition held during the recent Skills Show at the NEC (19-21 November).

Left: Adam takes gold at the Skills Show. Right: Adam and other Pendennis apprentices at the Discover Axminster event.
Left: Adam takes gold at the Skills Show. Right: Adam and other Pendennis apprentices at the Discover Axminster event.

Delighted to win, Adam said: “We were all given a drawing of a cabinet to work to and had 19 hours over two and a half days to complete it. There was lots of pressure as there were hundreds of people walking past and watching, (including) school children and judges. It was really intense but a lot of fun. I came fourth two years ago and didn’t think I’d win this time around, so it was a huge surprise.”

Adam was sponsored by Axminster Tools & Machinery, who provided him with some of the necessary tools to use on the day as well as promotional posters. Adam added: “My employers (Pendennis) are really pleased I got gold. It’s a great experience; I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Mike Carr, joint Managing Director at Pendennis, commented: “The apprentices at Pendennis are trained to the exacting standards expected in superyacht build and refit, and Adam’s win is reflective of this. Pendennis is proud of Adam’s dedication and skill set, and we look forward to him becoming a valuable full-time employee in our joinery department following his apprenticeship.”

Cornwall College’s Furniture course manager Richard Buckingham travelled with Adam to the competition, adding: “It’s such a fantastic event that really gets the adrenaline going, as if it’s a football match. Employers don’t always see the benefit of their employees spending time on competitions like this, but competing teaches the learners about working under pressure, organisational skills, time management and adapting to the environment. It’s also a great opportunity for networking and promoting yourself and your business.”

Axminster Tools & Machinery would like to congratulate Adam on his achievement.