Gillies & Mackay Apprentice Named Forth Valley College Apprentice of the Year

Published

10th July 2026

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Award-winning adult apprentice recognised for outstanding achievement after completing first year of Fast Track Modern Apprenticeship.

ERROL, PERTHSHIRE – Gillies & Mackay Ltd is celebrating the success of employee Arran
Ramsay-King, who was recognised at Forth Valley College's Apprenticeship Awards on 23 June
2026, receiving both Best in Class and the prestigious Stirling Incorporation of Hammermen
Apprentice of the Year Award.

We are absolutely ecstatic!!

Arran has just completed the first year of his two-year Fast Track Adult Modern Apprenticeship
in Carpentry & Joinery. Balancing college with a full-time role at Gillies & Mackay isn't easy, yet
he's taken every challenge in his stride. He's turned up, put the work in, never missed a beat,
and consistently knocked it out the park.

These awards belong to Arran, but they also reflect the incredible support he's had around him.
Huge thanks to his lecturer, Gareth Alexander, whose encouragement and belief have helped
Arran grow in confidence throughout the year, and to Irene Kane, Principal Kenny MacInnes,
and everyone at Forth Valley College for creating an environment where adult apprentices can
genuinely flourish.

Cara Mackay, CEO of Gillies & Mackay Ltd, said:
"As an employer, watching someone you believed in grow into someone who believes in
themselves is one of the greatest privileges of leadership. Arran has always been an
exceptional craftsman. Now he has the recognition to match.

These awards celebrate more than academic achievement. They recognise the commitment
Arran has shown every single week this year, and the people at Forth Valley College who have
helped him discover what he's capable of. Gareth has been a huge part of that journey, and
we're incredibly grateful for everything he's invested in Arran."

Gareth Alexander, Lecturer in Carpentry & Joinery at Forth Valley College, said:
"Arran has been a pleasure to teach this year. From the very beginning, he approached every
challenge with professionalism, determination and a genuine passion for the craft. He worked
incredibly hard, making him a thoroughly deserving recipient of both awards. We're all incredibly
proud of what he's achieved, and I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes in his second
year"