Eleven young engineers were recognised at the Apprenticeship Awards at this year’s Midlands Machinery Show. Each received £500 over the next two years to aid their future careers, with most choosing to invest in a specialist toolkit. The winners also received a Hydrokit Multimeter.
“Supporting the best of the next generation of agricultural engineers is key for promoting careers withing the industry,” said Roger Jackson, chairman of the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society (NNAS), which sponsors the awards.
“Through hands-on learning and experience, apprentices help cultivate a thriving and sustainable future for our farming communities. Providing a platform to help fund these young apprentices is crucial as now, more than ever, they deserve new and exciting opportunities to inspire them as they head into their future careers.”
Claiming their first year awards were: Joshua Whotton and Nathan Walls, who are working at Chandlers; Max Lumsden at Russells; Joe Slater and Joe Sweetmore from B&B Tractors; and Lewis Collins from Sharman’s Agricultural.
Stepping up to receive the second stage awards were: Aaron Barlow and Arun Slanley at B&B Tractors; Ryan Lomas at Chandlers; Robert Ward at Farol and Craig Redfern from Sharman’s Agricultural.
“Since last year, Craig has now completed his apprenticeship and is fully qualified,” said Roger. “He recommends this award as something to be proud of. He believes it shows, not only to himself and his family, but his employer, that he has what it takes and the drive to always better himself. He recommends other apprentices to apply, as it is beneficial at whatever stage you’re at within your apprenticeship.”
Pat White, president of the NNAS, commended the apprentices for their role in the farming sector. “You are the doctors of the agricultural industry; without you a lot of our equipment would fail,” he said. “Agricultural mechanics and technicians have been an integral part of our farm, and I hope you are incentivised and want to remain part of the agricultural family. What you do for farmers is very much appreciated and I wish you all the best for the future.”
