Having started out as a mature Training for Work student at Carnegie College, Jim is now achieving his ambitions of working as a craftsman by doing his Furniture Modern Apprentice with the college while employed with Havelock Europa Plc.
Jim's hard work was recognised this week at the national awards ceremony in Birmingham.
Jim said: "I always enjoyed working with my hands and after completing a carpentry and joinery course at Carnegie, I followed this with the Making and Installing Furniture course.
"I was fortunate enough, despite being a more 'mature' student, to have been given a placement with Havelock Europa Plc and was soon signed up as an apprentice.
"The company also benefited by using my experience when considering their future development plans, encouraging them to take on more staff of my age."
During training Jim was given the opportunity to design and make a showcase for the Normandy Veterans Association's Standard, now on permanent display in Dunfermline City Chambers.
Jim said: "Now I am getting the opportunity to pass on my skills, knowledge and experience to apprentices who are beginning their careers."
Jim has also reached the final of the Scottish Modern Apprenticeship Awards, and was due to find out in Edinburgh this week whether he could add to his list of achievements.
Kevin Johnston, Production Manager of Havelock Europa plc said "This is a great achievement for Jim and is worthy recognition of all of the hard work and effort he has put in to ensure that he succeeded."
Jim's tutor David Young of Carnegie College said "Jim has always been a keen student, eager to learn and was always very supportive of the other students so we are very pleased about his success."