Hayden Inglis, a 21-year-old gas engineering trainee from Glasgow, has been named LCL Awards’ first-ever Trainee of the Year. Chosen from a shortlist of three, Hayden impressed judges with his “enthusiasm, passion and willingness to succeed” as well as his initiative, problem solving skills and ability to support others.

He recently completed his Commercial MLP & ACS at Scotland’s LCL Awards-approved centre, Gas Certification Company, following an apprenticeship at Glasgow Kelvin College.

The ‘Trainee of the Year’ award recognises an individual who has completed any LCL Awards qualification and gone above and beyond in their learning journey – by demonstrating resilience against challenges, excelling in practical or academic performance, or making a positive impact on their peers and industry.

The award was announced at LCL – The Awards ceremony in Birmingham on June 26. Gas Certification Company owner Andy McNabb accepted the trophy, with LCL’s Operations Director Neill Ovenden later presenting Hayden with his prize in Glasgow.

Reflecting on his win, Hayden said: “I feel brilliant about it! The news came out of the blue when Andy called me from the ceremony. I’m so excited—it’s great to have my hard work recognised. I’ve learned so much through my apprenticeship, and I enjoy working on the tools and becoming a better engineer every day.”

Inspired by his father, a gas compliance manager and engineer, Hayden began his apprenticeship at 18. Tutors quickly recognised his strong technical grasp and eagerness to apply learning on-site. Known as capable, reliable, and a natural mentor, Hayden has stood out from the start.

Jo Kelly, Hayden’s tutor at Gas Certification Company shared high praise: “Hayden’s fault-finding skills and initiative set him apart. He researches issues independently, shares insights with peers, and communicates complex ideas clearly. He’s already making a real contribution to the profession.”

Neill Ovenden added: “Hayden’s dedication, maturity, and willingness to go the extra mile make him exactly the kind of role model this award was created to celebrate.”

Other 2025 finalists were Gavin Charnock (ACS Gas Training and Assessment, South Wales) and Joshua Scott (Logic4training, Luton). Winners were chosen by a panel of industry leaders including Charlotte Lee (HPA), Stewart Clements (HHIC), Hattie Hassan MBE (Stopcocks), and Brett Forster (NAPIT).

LCL – The Awards launched in 2024 as part of the organisation’s 20th anniversary, recognising excellence across training centres and initiatives. The Trainee of the Year and Community Engagement awards are new for 2025.

LCL Awards is the UK’s leading awarding body for the building services sector, issuing around 50,000 certificates annually through 160+ approved centres nationwide.

Read more about Hayden: lclawards.co.uk