The Apprentice of the Year Award was won by Keiran McCrickard. This award was sponsored by Bradford College

Apprenticeships are an increasingly important way of attracting new talent and providing training for the future. 

The winner of this category have gone above and beyond as part of their apprenticeship for an employer that has offered the support and training needed to kick-start their careers.

Keiran McCrickard was 16 when he joined Solenis as a Science Manufacturing Technician apprentice.

He completed his apprenticeship in December 2022 despite being on furlough for six months and having to do most of his Diploma study online because of the pandemic. 

He said: “It was an honour to be nominated, never mind to win the award. It’s great to be recognised for the hard work I have put into my apprenticeship. I am also really enjoying my role as an Operator 2 within the Intermediate Department following qualifying as a Production Apprentice. It’s great to see more young people choosing a career in manufacturing and I hope this award also raises awareness of the opportunities on offer.”

A spokesperson for Solenis said: “Kieran actively takes part in our Young Person’s Network being a role model and ambassador to other young people across plant. Kieran has also played a vital part in alarm management within his department, a critical task within our COMAH site.”