Former Student Continues Amazing Journey

Former student Erica Richardson is celebrating success once again as she won the FE Student of the Year (sponsored by Caddick Construction) at the prestigious G4C (Generation 4 Change) Yorkshire and Humber Awards on Friday 25 September.

These awards recognise the rising stars and amazing companies dedicated to mentoring the next generation of construction leaders and culminated in a glitzy award ceremony at the Queens Hotel in Leeds. This year, the theme of the awards was “The Catalyst,” recognising that progress requires a spark, igniting innovation and excellence!

Erica has been a student at Craven College for a number of years working her way from Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery to Level 2 Carpentry & Joinery, Level 2 Diploma in Architectural Joinery and finally completing her Level 3 Architectural Joinery this Summer. Erica is now searching for an Apprentice position and we’re working with Erica to help her continue her progression.

Alongside her studies, Erica has also competed in the SkillBuild competition, her successes including a 1^st place at the Burnley Regional Qualifiers, 2^nd place in the National Finals, and then 1^st place again in Regional Qualifiers.

Erica said, “I’m really proud of everything I achieved but I wouldn’t be here without my tutor Andrew Barnes. He encouraged me to enter SkillBuild with no experience and I jumped straight in – it has all lead me to this point.

“I’m genuinely passionate about joinery and the wider construction industry. I’m particularly proud to be part of the growing number of women entering the trade, especially at a time when the industry is facing a real skills gap.”

Michelle Bulloch, Sales & Key Account Consultant, and Erica’s Mentor said, “Erica is about so more than competitions and awards. She is hardworking, determined, resilient and incredibly keen to learn She has a real passion for joinery, woodworking, design, and the built environment, and would also love to explore opportunities within interior design or architecture.

“I was proud to nominate Erica – and I’m even prouder to see Erica walk away with that award.”

Andrew Barnes, Lecturer in Carpentry & Joinery added, “Erica has an excellent attitude towards learning, she is naturally gifted in joinery and has a very critical eye for perfection. She always works to the highest of standards and is receptive to instruction to help her improve her skills. It has been a pleasure to teach Erica, and I am extremely proud of her achievements at SkillBuild. Erica will make an exceptional joiner!”

Duncan Bulloch, Assistant Principal of Curriculum & Skills at Craven College commented, “Erica is a great example of everything we hope for from a Craven College student; diligent, enthusiastic and she has finished her course equipped with all the skills needed to move onto the world of work. With her passion for joinery and willingness to continue learning she would be an asset to any workplace.”

Congratulations on your success Erica, we’re very proud of you!