Pictured: Conrad Healy
Five talented carpenters and joiners have beaten off stiff competition to secure coveted semi-final places in Screwfix’s search for the UK’s Top Tradesperson, which is now in its 16th year.
The semi-final stage will see Ben Ingersent from Somerton, Conrad Healy from Barnet, Gavin Tutton from Kenilworth, Jason Pittiglio from Dunstable and William Hobbs from Uckfield, compete against over 30 other tradespeople, presenting their skills and stories to judges from Screwfix.
Conrad, 51, who owns Bluewood Handyman, has worked as a carpenter and joiner for over 30 years. The variety of the job is what Conrad loves most, together with getting to apply problem solving skills to each job, looking at not only how to fix something, but how to improve it, and how to make it last. In addition, Conrad is also keen to support the next generation of joiners and teaches 16 to 19-year-olds at West Herts College, helping them develop the skills needed for a successful career in the trade.
Ben, 39, who runs Infinite Interiors, has worked as a joiner for 22 years. Ever since the early days of his apprenticeship, Ben has been committed to perfecting his skills – sharing his knowledge and passion with the next generation of joiners along the way. Ben’s favourite part of the job is working closely with customers, taking what is often a vision they have and carefully bringing it to life, taking pride in knowing that the end product will stay with the customer for generations to come.
Gavin, 40, who owns Gavin Tutton Carpentry has worked as a carpenter for 21 years. From learning a new skill, to tackling a new challenge, Gavin is continually pushing to improve and always goes above and beyond for customers, getting the most satisfaction from seeing their reactions once a job is complete. With a wealth of experience, Gavin now wants to use his journey to inspire others and showcase just how rewarding a career in the trade can be.
Jason, 34, who runs Pitt Precision Ltd, has worked as a joiner for 18 years. He loves the fact that every day brings unique challenges, ideas, and opportunities to create something that adds real value to people's lives. Beyond the work itself, one of the most rewarding aspects of being in the trade is the chance to teach and mentor the next generation, sharing valuable experiences and knowledge.
William, 33, Director of Joinery Boys Limited, has worked as a joiner for 18 years. With a lifelong commitment to joinery, William has received numerous awards in recognition of his skill, craftsmanship, and contributions to the industry. Having grown up immersed in the trade, and learning from his father, he is now passionate about mentoring young and aspiring joiners, passing on his knowledge to the next generation.
The semi-finalists will be whittled down to just ten before advancing to the national final at Screwfix Live in September.
And it’s at Screwfix Live, after being put through their paces by a panel of industry experts, one winner will be crowned Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2025 and take home a £20,000/€20,000 trade bundle of tools, tech, and training.
A chance to join the Hall of Fame
This year’s successful winner will join the likes of the current Top Tradesperson, plumber Mohammed Rahman, and 2023 winner Astrid Arnold in the growing Screwfix Hall of Fame.
Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix, added: “Now in its 16th year, our search for the UK and Ireland’s Top Tradesperson continues to highlight the exceptional talent within the trade industry. This year’s entries have been truly inspiring, and I wish all semi-finalists the best of luck as they compete for this year’s title.”
To find out more about Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2025, visit: screwfix.com/stt or screwfix.ie/stt
