A Bermudian jewellery store worker has become a fully certified Rolex Watchmaker after completing his final exams in Switzerland.

Phillip Anderson II was accepted into the Rolex Watch Technical Programme in 2018 through a partnership with Rolex Bahamas and the Department of Workforce Development.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Labour, congratulated Mr Anderson on his accomplishments this week, adding that he hoped his success would inspire others.

“I hope that through his accomplishment, others will see and come to understand that through hard work, determination and commitment, all things are possible,” Mr Hayward said.

“I also thank HS & JE Crisson, Rolex Bahamas, and the Department of Workforce Development team for providing this excellent opportunity.

“This outcome is a perfect example of how private and public entities working together can make a difference.”

A spokesman for the Ministry of Labour said: “During his apprenticeship, Mr Anderson received valuable on the job training and professional supervision as per his apprenticeship agreement.

“He also underwent comprehensive theoretical training and pre-examination study in the Rolex environment in Nassau, the Bahamas, in October 2018 and February 2020.

“Throughout the training, Mr Anderson also adopted specific behaviours integral to success in the field of watchmaking.

“These behaviours instilled in him the drive, determination, and desire, to strive for excellence, work well with others and improve his communication and presentation skills.”

Peter Crisson added that he was happy to have had the opportunity to invest in a Bermudian and the future of the company and voiced his gratitude for the National Training Board.

To register or learn about opportunities and apprenticeships with the Department of Workforce Development, please e-mail dwdlearning@gov.bm or call 297-7714.