Sponsored by the Tile Association

The winners of the SkillBuild National Final 2023 have been announced, after 78 construction trainees went head-to-head over three days.

SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and showcases some of the brightest talent in construction. The prestigious competition brings together highly skilled learners and apprentices to battle it out to be crowned winner of their chosen trade.

The event is sponsored by a number of brands including, for the tiling industry: Building Adhesives Ltd, Nicholls & Clarke Group, Schlüter-Systems, and The Tile Association .

Following the Regional Qualifiers, which were held at various colleges across the UK earlier this year, the National Final took place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes on 21–23 November. The event attracted around 1,000 visitors, exhibiting the variety of skills and career opportunities available within the industry.

Across the three days competitors were tasked with constructing a project designed by an expert panel of judges, within an 18-hour timeframe. The project tests the individual’s knowledge and skills, as well as their ability to work under pressure, ensuring they adhere to health and safety protocols.

Tim Balcon, CITB Chief Executive, said: “I always look forward to the SkillBuild events and this year’s final at the Marshall Arena has, once again, been a brilliant success! It’s fantastic to meet all the talented individuals and hear about their career aspirations, and I’m delighted we were able to welcome so many members of the public this year, too.

“At a time when the industry is going through a skills shortage, it’s vital that we support this next generation of talent and encourage them to pursue their passions. SkillBuild has the potential to make a huge difference here, transforming an interest or a hobby into a full-time career, and I’d like to thank everyone involved in making this year’s competition possible. Finally, congratulations to all the winners and everyone who competed, you should all be incredibly proud of yourselves.”

Congratulations to the winners of the Wall and Floor Tiling category:

1^st – Patryk Niedoba

2^nd – Steven Andrews

3^rd – Marshall Winder