Aluminium Federation Apprentice Nominee
Jenks & Cattell Engineering Ltd is delighted to announce that Daniel Collins, one of our talented apprentices, has been shortlisted among the top five for the prestigious Aluminium Federation (ALFED) Apprentice of the Year Award. This recognition underscores Dan’s exceptional skills, passion, and contributions to the sheet metal component manufacturing industry, particularly in aluminium.
Dan will join the other shortlisted apprentices and judges at the Make UK Apprenticeship Day on 19th November. The awards evening will be held at the ALFED Annual Dinner at the De Vere Beaumont Windsor on 28th November. Dan will be supported by his family and team members, including Adrian Muston, a Senior Process Engineer at Jenks & Cattell Engineering Ltd, who has been Dan’s mentor for over two years.
Apprentice Award Recognition
Adrian commented on the award, saying, “Dan truly deserves this recognition for his diligence in every aspect of his work. He consistently brings enthusiasm to each workday, continues to develop a strong work ethic, and is a valued member of our toolroom team.
Dan is currently in his final year at City of Wolverhampton College, pursuing a Level 3 engineering qualification.
We are extremely proud of Dan’s accomplishments and wish him the best of luck at the awards. His dedication and innovative thinking are highly commendable, and we look forward to his continued success in the industry.”
The ALFED Apprentice of the Year Award celebrates outstanding apprentices who have shown exceptional skill, dedication, and contributions to the aluminium manufacturing and processing industry. An ALFED representative stated, “Young people are set to play a crucial role in driving innovation and progress, and ALFED recognises the importance of supporting and empowering the next generation.”
To be considered for this award, Dan completed a project that involved modifying a tool for an aluminium automotive part. The original tool was inefficient, causing downtime on the power presses for a component that Jenks & Cattell Engineering supplies 70,000 units of each month to an automotive partner. Dan’s innovative and systematic modification resulted in a well-functioning tool, significantly reducing downtime and earning him significant recognition within the company.
A Quick Q&A with Dan Collins
Why did you want to be an engineer?
“I’ve always enjoyed maths and science, and I was inspired by my dad’s career in technical engineering. He was also an engineering apprentice.”
What do you enjoy the most?
“I enjoy finding solutions to creative challenges.”
What are you most proud of?
“The project I completed to be nominated for the ALFED Apprentice of the Year. I received significant recognition for modifying a high-value tool for the automotive industry, which improved its functionality, reduced downtime, and enhanced output, quality, and delivery performance.”
What advice do you have for the future generation?
“Take your time to identify the solution before rushing to complete a task. Doing it right the first time should be the goal.”