Nescot apprentice wins SkillElectric competition

A Nescot apprentice has been named as winner of the southern regional heat of the prestigious ‘SkillElectric’ competition.

Sebastian Mielnik, who studies at Nescot as part of his job with DW Electrical, beat other apprentices and students from across the region in a contest held in Chichester in June.

Having spent a year as a full-time student at Nescot, Sebastian’s talents were rewarded by gaining an apprenticeship with DW in 2020, following a recommendation from his tutor. As part of the apprenticeship, he continues to study with Nescot, though his employer is based around 50 miles away in Brighton. “When I heard about SkillElectric, I was keen to take part as it's great, high-pressure practice for my AM2S (professional qualification). In the competition, you are up against time, and have to complete the tasks at the highest standards. The other competitors were all very focused so it gets you motivated. I didn’t really have time to practice for the competition so it shows the skills I’ve been learning and my experience in the apprenticeship are top-notch.”

Neil McDonnell, Head of the Electrical Department at Nescot, said: “For this year’s competition Sebastian was our first choice – he’s very dedicated, always keen to learn and improve.”

Pete Warland, Sebastian’s supervisor at DW, added: “We’re very proud of Sebastian, he is very professional and always does a great job for our clients. None of us were surprised that he won, he always does a fantastic job.”

SkillElectric is one of the sector skills competitions that make up the annual ‘WorldSkills UK’ finals, celebrating the most talented and dedicated budding professionals from a range of the UK’s key industries. Students and apprentices from Nescot regularly succeed in regional and national WorldSkills UK competitions. In 2022 we have had winners and runners-up in competitions including construction trades, film making, beauty and media make-up. To find out more about joining one of our courses click here.