NATIONAL MASTER BUILDER AWARDS 2021
APPRENTICE JOINER LUKE EMERY AND SETANTA CONSTRUCTION FROM NI ARE THE BEST IN THE UK… Northern IrishMaster Builders scoop national awards
L uke Emery, an apprentice at the Castlederg construction firm Lowry Building & Civil Engineering and Magherafelt-based firm Setanta Construction have been named winners at this years’ Federation of Master Builders’ (FMB) National Master Builder Awards. Following their success at the Northern Ireland Master Builder Awards ceremony in June, Luke Emery went on to scoop the national Apprentice Award, while Setanta Construction Ltd was named national Building Company of the Year. TV presenter and building enthusiast Nick Knowles announced the national winners during a live virtual ceremony held on September 24. The awards recognise building excellence, quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service. They are run by the FMB, the largest trade association in the UK construction sector, which is this year celebrating its 80th anniversary. Luke Emery, a joinery apprentice, was recognised for “going the extra mile” for his team and customers, and his natural aptitude, growing skill level and eagerness to learn in his chosen trade. Lee Jones, Deputy Editor at Professional Builder and a national judge said, “To stand out in a field of very strong candidates was itself telling. Luke was a very well-rounded individual, he had determination, he had teamwork, he had communication. He also clearly had a lot of ambition, willing to progress and build on the skills and talent he has.” Reacting to his win, Luke said, “I’m delighted; it’s crazy! I have loved the variety of an apprenticeship, getting out and about on site. I would like to thank everyone at Lowry Building and Civil Engineering who has welcomed me; and continues to accommodate me. It’s a good environment to work in. I’d like to thank my mentor, Tommy, in particular.” Setanta Construction Ltd, a second- generation family business that specialises in timber frame builds and off-site manufacture was awarded national Building Company of the Year for its
FMB names Setanta Construction Ltd national Building Company of the Year.
courage to innovate and grow during the pandemic. Now at the forefront of building low- carbon, energy efficient homes, the company recently expanded its workshop and secured funding from Invest Northern Ireland to support research and development and local job creation. The judges also applauded Setanta’s commitment to employee training and wellbeing, including regular toolbox talks
demonstration of all these different areas makes it a worthy winner.” Mark Gribbin, Director of Setanta Construction Ltd, said, “It’s great to be recognised. I know lots of other companies will be doing what they can for their staff, to be supportive. Everyone’s finding it tough, but we’re finding a way through it. It’s interesting, challenging, but rewarding work.” Congratulations also go to all FMB members from Northern Ireland who made it to the national finals. For more information on the FMB, or how to become a Master Builder, call 028 9446 0416 or visit www.fmb.org.uk/nb
and its support of apprentices. Simon Ayres, Chief Executive of
TrustMark and a national judge said, “As we move forward into the 2020s, we have to now support new thinking, new ideas and new technologies. This company’s
Luke Emery (Lowry Building & Civil Engineering) scooped the FMB national Apprentice Award.
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