BMI UK & Ireland has crowned its 2026 BMI Apprentice of the Year winners, with George Mcilhiney winning the flat roof category and Alexander Dempsey recognised as the pitched roof winner.

Now in its ninth year, the competition was hosted at the BMI Academy near Gloucester, where 20 shortlisted apprentices took part in two days of technical challenges and group tasks that put their collaboration, business acumen and practical skills to the test. 

This year's theme ‘Adaptable Advantage' focused on flexibility and having confidence to embrace change, reflecting the resilient attitude of the trade as it continues to constantly evolve, face high demand and see tight project schedules. 

Alongside the hands-on competition, specialist judges shared insights from their own careers within the industry, each demonstrating the role adaptability has played in their professional success. In addition, the finalists benefited from a panel of previously ‘highly commended' alumni, who shared their experiences of the competition and how it helped shape their careers. The range of advice gave the finalists an insight into different aspects of a roofing career, highlighting the various pathways available to them. 

Speaking at the award ceremony, Chris Nicholls, Commercial Director, BMI UK & Ireland, said: "This year's competition has showcased incredible emerging talent across the industry, and everyone who made it this far should feel incredibly proud. 

"It's so positive to see so many passionate and talented young people. I hope you all feel like your confidence has grown from this experience and can take home a new perspective on what a future career in roofing can offer you." 

The winners received a cash prize of £1,000 alongside three years' complimentary access to bespoke BMI training courses to support their ongoing development, and all finalists received toolbags donated by SIG Roofing. 

Alexander Dempsey, from Redcar and Cleveland College and Samuel Moore Roofing, winner of the BMI Redland Apprentice of the Year award, said: "I gained so much more from this experience than I ever expected. Anyone who has the chance to should definitely apply, you never know what might happen!" 

George Mcilhiney from Langley Training LTD and E.G Swingler and Sons, crowned BMI Icopal Apprentice of the Year, added: "It's been such an exciting few days. Getting to speak with and learn from industry experts, previous finalists and other roofers has been so valuable, and I can't wait to see where I go from here."

In addition to the two overall winners, Niall Dean from Bolton College and Together Housing Group, and Alfie Hirst from SIMIAN and Karl Austerfield Roofing were highly commended in recognition of their strong performance throughout the competition. 

The pitched roofing finalists were judged by Ben Rowlands, Technical Manager - Pitched and Solar Integration at the NFRC, Oscar Darby, Founder of Chess Roofing Ltd., and Edward Kelly, Editor of Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer; whilst the flat roofing apprentices were judged by Anthony Hogan, CEO of SPRA, Sarah Spink, CEO of LWRA, and Duncan Murdock, Director of NRA Roofing & Flooring Services Ltd.