SECTOR INSIGHT
Architectural ironmongery ’ s rising stars celebrated at 42nd GAI Education Awards
The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers ( GAI ) has presented diplomas and awards to industry professionals in a glittering ceremony at London ’ s Oval cricket ground .
» THE 42ND GAI EDUCATION AWARDS on Thursday 17 November celebrated the outstanding educational achievements of students who passed the prestigious GAI Diploma , as well as those who secured prizes as the top students worldwide .
For the first time , the event also saw the presentation of the GAI Community Awards , celebrating the very best businesses and individuals in the architectural ironmongery industry .
Joining more than 300 guests from across the architectural ironmongery industry was guest speaker Caspar Craven , a best-selling author and teamwork specialist . The event , hosted by GAI Chief Executive Simon Forrester , was sponsored by Briton and George Boyd Ltd , with the prestigious Pinnacle Award for the top student sponsored by ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland .
Welcoming guests , GAI President Mario Del-Signore said : “ Education is a central pillar of the Guild ’ s success , and the success of our members too . GAI qualifications are recognised and respected globally , which is why clients ask for GAI Registered Architectural Ironmongers – RegAI ’ s – to ensure they have competent people scheduling their door hardware .
“ The many RegAI ’ s in this room are at the top of their game . Many of them attended a ceremony much like this one in the past , and today they continue to maintain and build their knowledge through our CPD programme . They understand the value of remaining up to date .
“ We all have a role to play in professionalism . We must strive to educate ourselves , our colleagues , and our clients about the value of delivery by competent professionals . I am delighted to be here to present certificates to the latest of these professionals .”
As diplomas were announced for 51 successful candidates , Ed Smith , Brand Director at joint sponsor George Boyd Ltd , said : “ Congratulations to all who have
been nominated , for their exceptional commitment , foresight , focus and achievement .
“ Seeing these rising stars honoured today really brings a focus on the importance of knowledge across the sector and the role that each and every one of us here can play , whether we are manufacturers or architectural ironmongers .”
And Pete Hancox , Commercial Leader – UK & Ireland at joint sponsor Allegion , added : “ The GAI ’ s educational programme is an integral part in our ongoing training and development plans and gives students the tools and knowledge to become true industry experts .
“ It ’ s really impressive to see in the room today , the level of investment made by the industry in training and developing people , but what is most impressive is the level of investment that each of you celebrating your achievements today , has made in yourselves .
“ While we as employers can facilitate your development , only you make it happen , and each of you has determined your own success and should be very proud of your achievements .”
The following prizes were awarded to the top performing students in the 2022 Certificate in Architectural Hardware Stage 2 :
1 st Mahaveer Chandrakanthan , Allegion India Pvt Ltd
2 nd David Boyd , Gretsch Unitas Ltd 3 rd Mohamed Aref , Ahram Security Group
The following medals were awarded to the top performing students in the 2022 GAI Diploma : Gold Ruth Banta , Consort Middle East LLC Silver Elena Dominguez Perez , FSB GmbH + Co KG Bronze Muzaffar Hussain , Consort Middle East LLC
The 2022 Pinnacle Award for the highest aggregate results across the Certificate in Architectural Hardware and Diploma programme , sponsored by ASSA ABLOY , was awarded to Ruth Banta , Consort Middle East LLC
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