Aluminium Federation Apprentice Nominee
Jenks & Cattell Engineering Ltd is proud to announce that Daniel Collins, one of our talented apprentices, has been shortlisted in the top five for the prestigious Aluminium Federation (ALFED) Apprentice of the Year Award. This recognition highlights Dan’s exceptional skills, passion, and contributions to the sheet metal component manufacturing industry, focusing on aluminium.
Dan will join the other shortlisted apprentices and the judges at the Make UK Apprenticeship Day on 19th November. The awards evening will take place 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. Adrian is a Senior Process Engineer at Jenks & Cattell Engineering Ltd who has been Dan’s mentor for over 2 years.
Apprentice Award Recognition
Speaking of the award, Adrian said: “Dan deserves this recognition due to his diligence in all areas of the work he completes. He maintains a high level of enthusiasm throughout every working day and continues to develop a strong work ethic, and he is a valued member of our toolroom team.
Dan is currently in his final year at City of Wolverhampton College, completing a Level 3 engineering qualification.
We are incredibly proud of Dan’s achievements and wish him the best of luck at the awards. His dedication and innovative thinking are truly commendable, and we look forward to seeing his continued success in the industry.”
ALFED’s Apprentice of the Year Award aims to honour exceptional apprentices who have demonstrated remarkable skill, dedication, and contribution to the aluminium manufacturing and processing industry. ALFED representative said: “Young people are poised to play a crucial role in driving innovation and progress, and ALFED recognises the vital 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 did not function well, causing downtime on the power presses for a component where Jenks & Cattell Engineering supply 70,000 each month to an automotive partner. Dan’s innovative and systematic modification resulted in a well-functioning tool, significantly reducing downtime and earning him great recognition within the company.
A Quick Q&A with Dan Collins
Why did you want to be an engineer?
“I’ve always liked maths and science, and I was inspired by my dad’s technical engineering career. He was also once an engineering apprentice.”
What do you enjoy the most?
“I enjoy finding solutions for creative challenges.”
What are you most proud of?
“The project I completed to be nominated for ALFED Apprentice of the Year. I received great recognition for creating a modification to a 5-figure tool for the automotive industry. It created a well-functioning tool for Jenks & Cattell which reduced downtime, improved output, quality and delivery performance.”
What advice do you have for the future generation?
“Slow down and identify the solution before rushing to complete something quickly to reduce the chances of doing it incorrectly. Right first time is the aim.”
