Longford apprentice electrician bidding to land €10,000 prize 

Martin Cronin, a promising Longford apprentice electrician, has reached the semi-final stage of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024 and thereby moved a step closer to landing a prize valued at €10,000. 

This year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice received more than 1,800 applications which have now been whittled down to just 33. 

Thirty-five year old Martin Cronin from Newtownforbes, who is currently studying Electricals at LOETB Tullamore Training Centre says: “I can’t believe I’ve reached the semi-finals. I love working as an electrician. I have a huge passion for learning and once confident in a particular skill I will always jump at the opportunity to impart any knowledge I have to other apprentices working alongside me. It is in fact a goal of mine to one day teach others who are embarking on this career path.” 

This year’s  Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024 final will return to London in May, where the top 10 apprentices will face a panel of industry experts to showcase why they believe they should be this year’s champion. 

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Only one will be crowned Screwfix Trade Apprentice and receive a career-boosting €10,000 trade bundle made up of tools, tech and training – everything they need to excel in their chosen trade. 

The judging panel includes representatives from Screwfix, the Federation of Master Builders, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, and the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting.  

In addition, Astrid Arnold, winner of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2023, will also be at the final to talk about her own experiences and share some of the exciting projects she’s been a part of since being crowned champion. 

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Jack Wallace, Marketing Director for Screwfix, says: “The skills gap facing our industry is showing no signs of slowing down, so it remains as crucial as ever to highlight just how rewarding a career in the trades can be. 

“Once again, the calibre of entries this year has been amazing, and every one of the 33 semi-finalists are a shining example of how hard work and passion can take you anywhere. Regardless of who makes the final 10, they should all be incredibly proud of their achievement, and I have no doubt they’ve inspired even more people to consider a career in the trades. I wish everyone the best of luck and look forward to the final in May!”