THOMAS Cook agent Jonathan Smith has become the first ever male finalist in the Travel Training Company’s Trainee of the Year award.
He beat off competition from three other candidates to win the Midland regional award.
Smith, who works at the Birmingham branch of Thomas Cook, will now compete in the national final later thisyear.
He was nominated for the award by Yasmin Richards, regional training advisor for the Travel Training Company.
“He is an enthusiastic trainee who has always shown great commitment to his training,” said Richards.
She said the three key areas which the TTC look for are enthusiasm, attitude and general performance in the workplace.
The programme involves self-study, on-the-job assessment and external training days but until now, not one male had reached the last stage.
Marketing manager Delia Howes said:”It’s inevitable that more women reach the final as they make up the bulk of trainees. But it’s encouraging to see a male reach this stage.”
The national winner will win a six night trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
All successful trainees in theprogramme will achieve an NVQ level 3 in Travel Services.