The COVID-19 pandemic has hidden a significant achievement by 20-year-old Mr Atkins.

The talented tradesman has been named the Master Builders Western Region Apprentice of the Year for Carpentry III.

He had previously been a third-year apprentice of the year runner-up at South West TAFE. The pandemic restrictions meant a pubic awards ceremony was not possible this year.

But for Mr Atkins, now a fully qualified carpenter, being named at the top of his craft was an honour.

"It was good to win, it means your hard work has paid off," Mr Atkins said.

"I was nominated for the award and then I was interviewed by the Master Builders."

Mr Atkins works for his father Brian's company, BA Building Services. He said new challenges was what he enjoyed most about his work.