Greg Kasowicz Wins 2016 BWF Trainee of the Year Award
Greg got shortlisted! Good Luck Greg!
Gowercroft Joinery Level 3 apprentice Greg Kasowicz, then 23 and from Sutton-in-Ashfield, won the British Woodworking Federation’s (BWF) Trainee of the Year Award in 2016. The award recognised his pivotal role in transforming the company’s production planning and purchasing systems—a move that had a lasting impact on efficiency and service.
This prestigious national award, part of the annual BWF Woodworking Awards, celebrates standout people, products, and projects in the UK joinery sector. The Trainee of the Year category highlights rising stars making real contributions early in their careers.
How Greg’s apprenticeship evolved
Greg joined Gowercroft as a sales administration apprentice. He quickly stood out, but it was during a placement in the production department that his full potential emerged.
Working alongside Gowercroft’s Directors, Greg helped design and implement a new production and planning system. The change led to faster production, lower costs, and better customer service. Gowercroft then worked with training provider Learning Unlimited to reshape Greg’s apprenticeship to better reflect his strengths and responsibilities.
He also took the initiative to redesign the purchasing and stock control systems, and began contributing to quality control across the company.
Hands-on experience that shaped a career
Greg began his apprenticeship after completing his A-levels and gaining some experience in manufacturing. He was keen to build his business skills through real-world learning.
“The responsibilities I have been given as part of my apprenticeship training, and the people I’m working with, have provided me with many opportunities to learn and gain much-needed experience in business, which will hopefully help me run my own business in the future. Winning this award confirms that hard work breeds success and gives me the confidence to take on more responsibility.”
Celebrated at the 2016 BWF Awards
The award was presented at the BWF Annual Dinner in 2016 at the National Motorcycle Museum. Hosted by Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards, the event recognised talent across the UK woodworking industry. Gowercroft was also shortlisted for the Technical Excellence Award for our work on Juergen Teller’s London photographic studio.
Gowercroft Managing Director Andrew Madge said:
“We’re thrilled that Greg has won this award. He has made a significant impact on the business, and he truly deserves this recognition for the drive and commitment he has shown since joining us. It is fantastic that we have been able to take this flexible approach to adapt his apprenticeship programme, working to his strengths and filling a gap in our organisation. That’s why we love apprenticeships as a way to develop our workforce.”
Growing with Gowercroft
Greg’s success is a great example of how well-designed apprenticeships benefit both individuals and businesses. At Gowercroft, we continue to invest in people and take pride in shaping rewarding careers in British joinery.
To learn more about working with us or explore our latest sustainable timber products, contact our team today.