Rising star: apprentice electrician from Milton Keynes, secures a semi-final spot in Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026 competition

An up-and-coming electrician from Milton Keynes has been named as a semi-finalist in this year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition.

With a record-breaking number of entries received this year, Harley Mackenzie, 20, has beaten more than 3,000 applicants across the UK and Ireland to secure a place in the semi-final.

Harley is now in with a chance of claiming the coveted title and taking home an impressive £10,000 trade bundle made up of tools, tech and training.

Harley is currently studying at Milton Keynes College, and the semi-final stage will see 37 aspiring apprentices face an interview to hopefully secure their place in the final, which will take place at Google HQ in April.

After securing a semi-final place, Harley comments: “I am delighted to have made it through to the semi-finals of Screwfix Trade Apprentice. To have been selected from a record number of applications is a huge achievement for me. I’m excited about the prospect of representing Milton Keynes on a national stage.

Harley continues: “Becoming an electrical apprentice has helped me develop my knowledge, practical skills, and confidence in the trade. Through hands on experience, I have learned how to work safely, solve problems, and improve my technical understanding. This role has also strengthened my ability to engage with people of all walks of life, building strong communication and teamwork.”

Harley also wants to spread a positive message about apprenticeships, saying: “I want to help people who may not have the same opportunities or support to reach their goals by showing them the different pathways available. Through interactive experiences like school visits and open days, I’d love to encourage younger people who are unsure about their future to consider apprenticeships and vocational careers as alternatives to sixth form or university.”

Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix, said: “As a retailer to the trade, we are committed to championing tradespeople across the UK and Ireland. The 12th annual Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition is a national platform which recognises and celebrates apprentices, whilst also highlighting the crucial contribution they make to the industry.

“With apprentices so important to the future success of the industry, it is great to see that we have received a record number of entries this year. To make it through to the highly contested semi-final stage is a fantastic achievement, and I wish this year’s semi-finalists the very best of luck in making it to the final.”

For further details, please visit: Screwfix.com/SFTA.