What's Happening?
ERIKS held its annual apprentice awards at its Fulfilment Centre of Expertise in Oldbury, West Midlands, celebrating the achievements of its apprentices. The awards recognized various aspects of the apprentices' performance, including college achievements and feedback
from managers and peers. The event featured four main award categories: Apprentice of the Year, 1st Year Apprentice of the Year, 2nd Year Apprentice of the Year, and Most Improved Apprentice, with cash prizes up to £250. Taylor-Mae Arkinstall from the Leeds service center won the 2025 Apprentice of the Year award for her exceptional dedication and contribution during her first year. Other winners included Sam Miah and Jeremy Aitken for the 1st and 2nd Year Apprentice awards, respectively, and Megan Henry for Most Improved Apprentice. The awards ceremony was part of a day filled with workshops and activities, including fun categories voted by apprentices themselves.
Why It's Important?
The ERIKS apprentice awards highlight the importance of nurturing young talent in the engineering sector, providing recognition and motivation for apprentices to excel. By celebrating achievements and offering cash prizes, ERIKS encourages professional and personal development among its apprentices, which is crucial for building a skilled workforce. The program's expansion to include younger apprentices, such as school leavers, signifies a commitment to early career development, potentially influencing industry standards for apprenticeship programs. This focus on youth development can lead to a more dynamic and innovative engineering sector, benefiting both the company and the broader industry.
What's Next?
ERIKS plans to continue expanding its apprentice program, welcoming its third year of students and introducing new initiatives such as recruiting sales apprentices at the Dublin service center. The inclusion of younger apprentices, including 16 and 17-year-olds, marks a shift towards engaging school leavers directly into the workforce. This approach may set a precedent for other companies to follow, potentially leading to increased opportunities for young individuals entering the engineering field. ERIKS' commitment to tracking the progress of these apprentices suggests ongoing support and development, which could result in long-term career growth for participants.
Beyond the Headlines
The ERIKS apprentice awards not only recognize individual achievements but also foster a sense of community and collaboration among apprentices. The fun categories, such as Duo of the Year and Social Media King or Queen, encourage social interaction and networking, which are vital for personal growth and professional relationships. This holistic approach to apprenticeship programs may influence other companies to adopt similar strategies, emphasizing the importance of a supportive and engaging work environment. Additionally, the program's success could inspire educational institutions to strengthen partnerships with industry leaders, enhancing the transition from education to employment.
