South West College Lecturer awarded for excellence in Construction Training 31 May 2024 South West College Carpentry and Joinery lecturer Jimmy Martin has been awarded the prestigious Hugh Gettinby Best Trainer/Lecturer Award at this year’s SkillBuild NI Regional Competition. Jimmy, based at the SWC Technology and Skills Centre Enniskillen, was recognized for his excellence in construction training. This award is given annually to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional success and dedication to training young people in line with the SkillBuild NI ethos. SkillBuild NI, organized by CITB NI and supported by the Department for the Economy, is a highly anticipated competition for construction apprentices across Northern Ireland. Apprentices compete in various skills areas for a chance to qualify for the national SkillBuild finals in GB, and the opportunity to compete against top apprentices from across the UK. Jimmy has been teaching Carpentry and Joinery since 2003 and has shown a flair for spotting potential in students and helping them succeed in Skillbuild competitions. Throughout his career, Jimmy has achieved numerous successes with one student even going on to compete at the Commonwealth World Skills in Australia, and on to the World Skills Competition in Germany, where he achieved a medal of excellence. His colleagues at South West College praise his dedication, commitment, and ability to see the potential in young people, and his dedication to training and preparing students for competitions over the past 21 years. Speaking about Jimmy, Head of department, John Moss said: “A special congratulations to our colleague Jimmy Martin on his receipt of the Hugh Gettinby Lecturer/Trainer Award, marking a distinguished and successful career, very well-deserved Jimmy!” Vanessa O’Keeffe, Deputy Head of the Department, added: “Congratulations to Jimmy Martin for his well-deserved recognition for excellence in training. Jimmy's talent for mentoring and guiding students over the years has led to their many successes within the construction industry. His dedication to their growth and development is commendable. His approachable demeanour helps students engage with the curriculum, and he uses past skills competition models to ensure active participation from all students. Jimmy has the ability to identify talent in young people and goes above and beyond to help them reach their full potential, often organizing additional training sessions in his own time. He is a worthy recipient of the Hugh Gettinby Best Trainer/Lecturer award.” Construction and Trades Learn more Share Sign up. Get Qualified. Succeed. Subscribe now for hand-picked courses, inspiration and the latest news and offers, straight to your inbox. The details provided will be used to send you relevant information about SWC. Subscribe now for hand-picked courses, inspiration and the latest news and offers, straight to your inbox. The details provided will be used to send you relevant information about SWC.