SkillBuild, delivered by CITB, is the UK’s largest construction competition for trainees and apprentices, bringing talented apprentices and trainees from across the country to test their abilities in a series of demanding, real-world challenges.

Robbie Taylor, Fraser Garner and Harris Murray represented DGC at the regional heat taking place at Newcastle College on 24 June 2025.

Third-year apprentice Robbie delivered an exceptional performance that stood out for its technical complexity and execution to win third place.

With three years of focused training behind him, Robbie demonstrated a high level of precision in setting out, mastery of complex bonding patterns and consistent accuracy under time pressure.

Judges and fellow competitors praised the maturity and craftsmanship evident in his work ─ attributes that clearly mark him out as a rising star in the construction industry.

First-year apprentices Fraser and Harris also made a significant impact at the competition.

Despite their early stage of training, both students impressed with their composure, focus, and refined technique. Their brickwork was clean, consistent, and methodical ─ highlighting their natural aptitude and the promising future they each have in the trade.

Alan McKie, curriculum manager for sustainable construction at Dumfries and Galloway College, said: “We are incredibly proud of Robbie, Fraser, and Harris ─ not just for their performances at SkillBuild, but for the commitment and discipline they’ve shown throughout their training.

“Competitions like this are about more than just technical skill… they’re about resilience, problem-solving and professionalism under pressure. Our students proved they have all of that in abundance.

“All three students performed at a high level technically and also represented themselves and the college with professionalism and enthusiasm throughout the entire competition.

“The experience in Newcastle was invaluable for their development, offering them a platform to grow, compete and learn among the best in the UK.”