Three exceptional apprentices have been named as finalists for the prestigious ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year Award, as ECA marks its landmark 125th anniversary year. 

Established in 1975, the ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year Award is one of the electrotechnical and engineering services industry’s most respected training accolades, celebrating outstanding apprentices who combine exceptional technical skill with the professionalism, ambition and leadership potential to inspire others. 

At final-stage interviews held on 22 July at ECA’s London office, the shortlisted apprentices impressed judges with their technical ability, commitment to learning and development, understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, dedication to their ECA Member employer, communication skills and vision for the future of the electrotechnical sector. 

Following a highly competitive judging process, the three finalists are: 

• Samuel Leonard - P A Collacott & Co (East) 
• Remi Newman - Essex Services Group Ltd (Greater London) 
• Ethan Timmins - Derry Building Services (East Midlands)

The winner of this year’s Award will receive a £3,000 cash prize, a certificate of commendation, VIP tickets to the ECA Industry Awards Dinner, an overseas study tour to Austria sponsored by Thorn Lighting, and a state-of-the-art toolkit to support the next stage of their career. 

Keith Sanderson, Head of Education and Skills at ECA, said: 

“Now in its 51st year, the ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year Award continues to shine a spotlight on the very best emerging talent in our industry. Apprentices are central to the future of the electrotechnical sector, and the standard of this year’s entries shows just how much skill, energy and ambition is coming through. Their success also reflects the commitment of ECA Member employers who invest in training, nurture potential and help build the skilled workforce our industry needs for the future. Congratulations to everyone who reached the final stage.” 

Gary Parker, Deputy Technical Director at ECA, who was part of the judging panel, said: 

“It was fantastic to see so many apprentices put themselves forward for the ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year Award 2026. The standard and calibre of the entries was exceptional, and the dedication, confidence and passion shown by the candidates was genuinely inspiring. Every apprentice who reached this stage should be extremely proud. The electrical industry faces major challenges, but seeing this level of talent coming through gives real confidence for the future.” 

The calibre of this year’s finalists reflects the strength of the next generation entering the electrotechnical industry at a pivotal moment for skills, safety, electrification and the low-carbon transition. The overall winner will be announced at an awards luncheon on Wednesday 16 September at Trinity House in London.