For the first time the Queen’s birthday honour’s list has recognised people’s work with WorldSkills International.
Seven people received a CBE, OBE or MBE partly because of their involvement with WorldSkills.
David Beresford Cragg, who was the deputy chairman of WorldSkills 2011 and has an OBE, was appointed a CBE. Aidan Jones, who was the chief executive of WorldSkills London 2011, was given an OBE.
The following were awarded an MBE for their role at WorldSkills London last year: Jenna Bailey, was a workshop supervisor for beauty therapy, Keith Nicolas Chapman, was an ambassador for landscape gardening, Eugene Incerti, was a director of skills competitions, Adam Peirson, was an ambassador for cooking, and Richard Sagar, was an ambassador for electrical installation.
Chris Humphries, the chairman of WorldSkills London 2011, said: “We will only see growth return to our economies through an era of skills and entrepreneurship and that’s why it’s so important that our work continues. WorldSkills London 2011 was a potential watershed in changing public attitudes about the value of skills in the UK.’’
The former WorldSkills competitors to be honoured are thought to be amongst the youngest on the honour’s list. Mr Sagar, 25, a WorldSkills ambassador who started his own electrical business following a gold medal win in electrical installation at Calgary in 2009, said:
‘‘I am determined to continue to deliver the high standards of skills that I have learned through WorldSkills. Being involved in skills competitions helps me to constantly improve my business as I am able to compare and contrast different techniques. I really hope it inspires other young people and shows them what can be achieved if you put your heart and mind into something that you love to do. This is a tremendous honour and a once in a lifetime opportunity – I will treasure it forever.’’
Squad selection for next year’s WorldSkills Leipzig competition is kicking off this week. You can find out more details about the event in next week’s paper.
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