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SCREWFIX TRADE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR DAN O'SHEA HAS ALREADY COME UP WITH HIS OWN AMAZING INVENTION BUT IS ENCOURAGING OTHER YOUNG PEOPLE TO TRY LEARNING A NEW TRADE AND NOT SEE IT AS A
FALL-BACK 09:55, 29 May 2025Updated 09:55, 29 May 2025 SOMETIMES it takes a fresh pair of eyes to solve an existing problem. And for Dan O'Shea, the Screwfix Trade Apprentice of the
Year, the solution must have seemed obvious. At just 20 years old, the apprentice sparky has already come up with his own amazing invention. Dubbed the Multi-Marker, it's an engineering
marvel that performs internal measurements in places where measuring tapes would struggle to take a reading. It helps tradies stick to regulations surrounding measurements when on the job,
potentially saving them bucket-loads of time. And it also helped Dan stand out to the competition judges. The futurelectrician, from rural Ballymahon in Co Longford, Ireland, says his chosen
career fits him like a glove as he's ?always used tools since he could walk?. But at first he didn't think of going the apprentice ship route. "Apprenticeships are
broadcasted to students like they're nearly fall-back option or a safety net and that's the way I took it as well," Dan says. "And I thought to myself that you have to go
to college." But after two weeks studying agricultural science at University College Dublin, it soon became clear the academic life wasn't for him. Leaving uni in the dust, he
dropped out and started looking for work. Article continues below Dan got in touch with his uncle, who introduced him to the electrical scene and hooked him up with an apprenticeship
programme. at F White Electrical. And before long, he found himself a vital part of the team. Pretty soon he was tackling jobs on his own - and responsible for a company van and a fuel card.
He admits it was daunting at first, but he was always determined to succeed. He says: "Every day it doesn't matter how qualified or how experienced you are. Every day you're
going to learn something new." Dan is now passionate about encouraging other young people to follow in his footsteps. He says apprenticeships still have an image problem that's
putting many school-leavers off. "So that's one thing I have to try," he adds. "I'd love to be able to try and change that stigma." Having reached out to local
politicians about the issue, Dan is now working with schools in his area. He's even created workshops for students in their transition year who may not have considered the scheme.
Whatever profession they are thinking of pursuing, his advice to them is the same. He says the secret to success is "ambition, determination, willingness to learn and willingness to
take in people's advice". And for sparky Dan, the future certainly looks bright. In the short-term, he just wants to keep his head down and pass his apprenticeship with flying
colours. He also plans to take an electrical testing course to further diversify his skills. Ultimately though, he'd like to start his own company - and give future apprentices their
own opportunity to shine. HELPING HANDS By Josh Whorms WHILE I might not have found myself crowned an Apprentice of the Year, I have seen some success on my apprenticeship scheme. I'm
incredibly grateful to work with colleagues who support me, even if I don't always feel confident? And despite our fields varying greatly, I found Dan's words resonated with me.
There is a stigma surrounding apprenticeships and ripping down that stigma over time is something I also strive to achieve. The opportunity to learn alongside seasoned professionals in the
industry is invaluable regardless of anyone's previous education level. Personally, I couldn't imagine joining the workforce in any other way. "Like Dan says, I believe we
need to do a better job broadcasting these opportunities to more young people, as apprenticeships should not be viewed as a fall-back strategy for those leaving university or college.
"They should be seen for what they are - a viable education choice that offers a direct pathway into the world of work." _GET_ _THE FACTS ON APPRENTICESHIPS:_ ● Anyone aged 16 or
over can become an apprentice, provided they’re not in full-time education. ● Apprentices train on the job, earning at least minimum wage, and get employment rights like holiday and sick
pay. Article continues below ● Thousands of different jobs offer apprenticeships – in every field from engineering to healthcare. ● Apprenticeships last one to six years and you’ll end up
with a recognised qualification. Level 2 is equivalent to a GCSE, while Level 7 gives you a bachelor’s or master’s degree. ●For more information, visit apprenticeships.gov.uk