Ross Gorman and Lara Mcleman have been named Apprentices of the Year 2024/2025 by the Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA).

Gorman, who works for McFadyens Contractors in Campbeltown, was awarded SPOA Plant Operator Apprentice of the Year, while Mcleman, employed by Scot JCB in Muir of Ord, was named SPOA Plant Mechanic Apprentice of the Year.

The awards, sponsored by Currie Contractors, The Attachment Company, and CITB, recognise the outstanding achievements of apprentices in the plant industry.

"Ross has consistently demonstrated dedication and professionalism throughout his time on the programme," said Chris Bushell, Programme Manager at the National Construction College.

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"Lara is an extraordinary apprentice," said Fraser Coull, Andy Cowan and Martyn Paton, from the Plant Mechanic team at the National Construction College. "Her commitment to the course, her ability to meet deadlines, and her consistent attendance have been outstanding."

"When you hear the feedback from the team at the National Construction College, it fills me with hope that there are talented, hardworking young people out there who can have a successful career in the plant industry," said James Currie, Managing Director at Currie Contractors.

"I am still taking it all in, I can't express how much this means to me and how grateful I am to everyone at McFadyens for me giving me the opportunity," said Ross Gorman.

"I am absolutely delighted with this award," said Lara Mcleman. "I love my job and I really value everything I am learning on my apprenticeship."

"We are delighted to sponsor the SPOA Apprentice of the Year Awards and are proud to support the upcoming, young talent coming through in our industry," said Laura and William Forrest from The Attachment Company.

As part of their awards, Ross and Lara will receive a VIP trip to Bauma, the world's leading construction equipment exhibition, in Munich, Germany.

"I would like to congratulate Ross and Lara on being named the SPOA's Apprentices of the Year," said John Sibbald, President of the SPOA.