Ron completes a full circle at Ystrad Mynach

Cymoedd Tutor Ron Williams has laid down his tools after spending more than 50 years working and teaching in the Plumbing & Heating industry. 

Ron, originally from Llanbradach, Caerphilly but now living in Llandaff, Cardiff started his career in 1971, when he enrolled on the Plumbing, Heating and Gas Apprenticeship at the Ystrad Mynach College; which is now part of Coleg y Cymoedd. He enjoyed every minute of his studies and worked hard, doing his best to achieve good grades and in 1974 he was awarded College Student of the Year.

He went on to achieve City & Guilds Craft and Advanced Craft, with Distinction and Higher Education and Teaching qualifications. In 1978 Ron began his teaching career, lecturing part –time at the college, under the mentorship of Jim Manley, who also mentored fellow colleague Andrew Keenan. After a number of years, with no opportunity for full-time teaching Ron left education and had a successful career as a self employed engineer.

After 15 years in the trade, Ron’s passion for education saw him back in the classroom at various colleges, undertaking a variety of roles which included Lecturer, Assessor, Verifier, Learning and Teaching Mentor, Section Leader, Senior Lecturer, Short Course Co-ordinator, Energy Centre Manager, Renewable Energy Installer, Trainer and Quality Controller. Always keen to further his experience Ron worked in the Work Based Learning Team assessing WBL Apprentices and designed and delivered Community Education courses.

Ron was a true ambassador for Lifelong Learning and completed his PGCE, Cert Ed. qualifications, HNC in Construction and numerous short courses. His final role at the college was Gas Centre Manager, at the Ystrad Mynach campus, where he worked hard to increase interest in the energy sector.

It was not ‘all work and no play’ as Ron also sang and played the guitar in the college rock band at Christmas and end of year parties. Commenting on his retirement Ron said “I feel I have worked hard to pass on my vast experience to many learners and colleagues. I’d like to thank everyone, all staff and learners I’ve had the pleasure of working with throughout this stage of my career.  I have enjoyed my time at the Ystrad Mynach campus, both as that young apprentice in the 70’s and more recently as the Gas Centre Manager. So keep at it, it is, Learning for Life!”

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