Louth cabinet maker reaches semi-final of Screwfix Top Tradesperson Award

James McSwiney, a cabinet maker from Ardee, Co Louth, has reached the semi-final of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2023.

James, 26, who owns JMS Custom Designs has been working in the trade for nine years. 

His initial application highlighted James’ professionalism, dedication, and commitment to supporting the future of the industry, securing him a place in the semi-finals for this coveted award. James recently set up his own business and previously represented Ireland in Abu Dhabi at the World Skills Competition.

He will now compete against 26 other top tradespeople from across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, who were selected from over 1000 applications, for the chance to be shortlisted as a top 10 finalist.

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The top 10 will participate in a one-day final event at Screwfix LIVE, on Friday 22nd September, where a panel of esteemed industry experts will interview the finalists before deciding on who is this year’s champion.

The overall winner will be crowned Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2023, and take home the ultimate trade bundle of tools, tech, and training worth €20,000.

Speaking about the competition, James said: “I’m thrilled to get through to the semi-finals of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2023, particularly knowing how many incredible tradespeople I would have been up against.

“Reaching the national final in September and winning the award would be great recognition for me and my business.”

Now in the 14th year of the prestigious award, James aims to join the Top Tradesperson Hall of Fame, alongside reigning champion Toby Peacock who won the competition last year.

Toby, an electrician from Cambridge, has shown himself to be a true ambassador for the trade, launching his podcast ‘Tearoom Talks Podcast’ which focuses on improving mental health in the trade.

Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix, said: “We know there are many exceptional tradespeople out there who show passion and dedication day in, day out.

“When choosing our champion of the trade, we look for inspirational tradespeople that go above and beyond for their customers, as well as acting as an ambassador of the industry to encourage the next generation of tradespeople.

“Through this national award, we hope to recognise the fantastic work of tradespeople who are invaluable to our economy and the communities they serve.

“A huge congratulations to all our semi-finalists – I wish them the best of luck and look forward to meeting our finalists in September!”

To find out more about Screwfix Top Tradesperson, please visit screwfix.ie/stt