An Ammanford company started by an apprentice carpenter has won an award for its work with apprentices.

TRJ Ltd, the family construction business founded in 1935 by former apprentice T. Richard Jones, was named Medium Employer of the Year at the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru 2024.

TRJ Ltd has been employing apprentices for approximately 89 years, providing a regular source of construction expertise for south west Wales.

The enterprise is currently managed by the family's third generation, with 160 employees, of whom 16 are apprentices, and approximately 100 sub-contractors.

Over the last five years, TRJ has taken on 43 apprentices, endorsing award-winning shared apprenticeships and traditional apprenticeship programmes via Cyfle Building Skills and Coleg Sir Gâr.

On the win, Stuart Thomas, TRJ Ltd’s social value and training officer, said: "It's overwhelming that we have been recognised for getting people on the first stepping stone of their career.

"I am really happy for TRJ that we have achieved the high standards and excellence required to win this award."

The Apprenticeship Awards Cymru are organised by the Welsh Government and supported by the National Training Federation for Wales (NTFW).

Apprenticeships form the foundation of TRJ Ltd, echoing their mantra of 'building on a firm foundation'.

Nine former apprentices have gone on to hold managerial or supervisory positions within the company.

The company's dedication to learning and development is rooted in its founder's beginnings as an apprentice carpenter.

His vision continues to motivate their definitive approach to education and development.

A wide range of construction trade apprenticeships are delivered by Coleg Sir Gâr, Neath Port Talbot College, and Bridgend College.

TRJ has also piloted, in partnership with Coleg Sir Gâr and CITB, a Foundation Apprenticeship in Construction and Civil Engineering Operations, completed by 30 apprentices.

Recognising the achievement, Al Parkes, managing director at EAL, said: "I would like to congratulate not just TRJ Ltd and the other award winners, but all the employers, apprentices, and work-based learning practitioners who were nominated."

For more information about recruiting an apprentice, visit the Welsh Government's website or call 03000 603000.