The 23-year-old apprentice builder was runner-up in the New Zealand Certified Builders Apprentice Challenge at the weekend.
It has given him bragging rights over his boss and brother Marcus, who came third in the competition in 2015.
"I work for my brother Marcus, and I’ve gone one better than him.
"It was definitely a goal when I entered the competition — I wanted to win, but if I couldn’t do that, I wanted to place second."
Despite the one-up on his big brother, Roy said he was not playing that card.
"It’s not a bone of contention for us.
"He’s been very supportive and, working alongside him, he’s a very good builder and I’ve learnt so much from him.
"If I wasn’t working for him, I wouldn’t have got this far."
Marcus was proud of his little brother’s achievement.
But in case Roy returned to work with a "big head" about his achievement, Marcus went into full "boss mode" and made a valiant attempt to keep Roy’s feet firmly grounded.
"I’ve come back to work today and I’m putting in Pink Batts insulation, so that’s brought me back down to earth and reminded me that I’m still an apprentice.
"No power tools for me today."
He was now thinking very carefully about his next steps.
"I’ve got two options — either I get qualified as a builder, or I drag this apprenticeship out and have another go at the challenge again next year.
"I’m pretty close to being qualified, so I’ll go for qualification, I think."
The challenge was won by Daniel Smith, 32, of Auckland, and third place was won by Courtney Willan, 28, of Auckland.
The challenge national final took place at the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) annual conference in Wellington, where 20 regional finalists from across the country competed for the top prize.
Apprentices were judged on examples of their work, dedication towards their apprenticeship, and a presentation to hundreds of NZCB member builders attending the conference.
NZCB chief executive Malcolm Fleming said the talent in this year’s challenge was a great sign for the future of the construction industry.
"The apprentices that competed in this year’s NZCB Apprentice Challenge demonstrated enthusiasm for the carpentry trade and a high level of skill, which is incredibly promising for the future of the industry.
"In order to ensure that we continue to grow the number of qualified builders in New Zealand, and meet the demand facing our sector, it’s vital we support our apprentices and provide them with opportunities to put their skills to the test and thrive."
