Judging Criteria

For those building a more responsible future.

Recognising those who are actively driving positive environmental change within the industry – from adopting sustainable materials and practices to influencing others and reducing environmental impact. This is about leadership, innovation, and long-term thinking.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Incorporates environmentally sustainable materials and methods into their work where applicable.

Waste Reduction

Actively seeks to minimize waste during projects and disposes of materials responsibly.

Energy Efficiency

Projects or practices that prioritize energy conservation or utilize renewable energy sources.

Sustainable Site Management

Minimization of the environmental footprint during and after construction, such as waste reduction, pollution control, or ecosystem protection.

Leadership in Sustainability

Acts as a role model or advocate, influencing others to adopt more sustainable practices.

Long-Term Impact

Demonstrates commitment to lasting environmental change rather than one-off initiatives.

For those using their skills to make a real difference where it matters most.

This award celebrates tradespeople or businesses who give back in meaningful ways – whether through charitable work, supporting vulnerable individuals, mentoring others, or playing a vital role in their local community. We want to hear stories that show genuine impact and humanity.

Community Impact

Positive contributions to the local community, such as infrastructure development, job creation, or enhanced living conditions.

Social Responsibility

Engagement in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as charity work or pro-bono projects that benefit society.

Stakeholder Involvement

Collaboration with community members, local governments, and other stakeholders to ensure the project meets broader social and economic goals.

Depth of Impact

Demonstrates meaningful, measurable difference to individuals or groups rather than one-off or surface-level contributions.

Personal Commitment

Evidence of sustained effort, personal investment, or sacrifice in supporting the community.

Human Story

Strong, emotive examples that highlight real people and outcomes.

For those at the very start of their journey who are already making waves.

Checkatrade has a strategic partnership with British rugby league team Leeds Rhinos, built on shared values of hard work, pride and resilience, and a joint ambition to support skills, opportunity and economic growth. We’re looking for emerging talent that stands out from the crowd – individuals or businesses showing remarkable skill, drive, and promise early in their career. This could include apprentices, career changers, or newly established businesses already demonstrating exceptional potential.

Innovation

Use of innovative methods or technologies in construction processes (e.g., new materials, tools, or sustainable techniques).

Growth and business performance

Significant growth in terms of company size, project scope, or revenue within a short period.

Vision and future potential

A clear vision for the future, either in terms of expanding the business or adopting future-forward construction methods.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Willingness to embrace change, adopt new practices, and improve processes for long-term success.

Standout Trajectory

Progress or achievements that significantly exceed expectations for their stage of career.

Drive and Initiative

Evidence of proactive learning, ambition, and willingness to go beyond required standards.

Early Influence

Already making a positive impact on others, their business, or their local industry.

Celebrating the women shaping and strengthening the industry.

This award recognises outstanding women in trades who are not only excelling in their profession, but also inspiring others, breaking barriers, and contributing to a more inclusive future for the industry.

Professional achievements

Project success, Innovation, problem solving and technical expertise.

Barrier Breaking

Evidence of overcoming challenges or breaking down barriers within the industry.

Inspiration to Others

Actively encouraging or supporting more women to enter or progress within the trades.

For those pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the trades.

This award celebrates forward-thinkers who are embracing technology to transform how they work – whether through digital tools, AI, smart systems, or new processes that improve efficiency, quality, or customer experience. Show us how they’re helping move the industry forward.

Innovation and creativity

Use of groundbreaking or advanced technology, such as AI, robotics, 3D printing, BIM (Building Information Modelling) in construction projects.

Creative problem-solving

Application of technology to solve complex construction challenges, optimize processes, or improve project outcomes.

Impact on efficiency and productivity

Demonstrated improvement in project efficiency through technology adoption, reducing costs or project timelines.

Sustainability and environmental benefits

Use of technology to reduce the environmental footprint of construction projects, such as energy-efficient building designs or materials, waste reduction, or low-carbon construction methods.

Improvement and safety and risk management

Adoption and effective use of technologies to improve worker safety and mitigate risks.

Industry Advancement

Demonstrates how their use of technology could influence wider adoption across the trade sector.

Practical Impact

Clear, real-world outcomes rather than theoretical or limited-use innovation.

The ultimate recognition of excellence in the trades.

Awarded to an individual who embodies the very best of the industry – combining exceptional skill with leadership, integrity, and influence. This is someone who is not only outstanding in their work, but is raising standards, inspiring others, and leaving a lasting legacy.

Trade Advocacy

Advocates for the trade profession through mentoring, public speaking, media, or active involvement.

Positive Role Model

Acts as a role model for colleagues, apprentices, and peers.

Cause-Driven Leadership

Actively supports key industry causes such as apprenticeships, diversity, mental health, or sustainability.

Industry Influence

Influences positive change in trade practices, standards, or collaboration.

Legacy Contribution

Long-term contribution to improving the reputation, perception, or standards of the trades.

Inspiration and Leadership Beyond Own Business

Influence that extends beyond their immediate team or company.