Not one, but two Lancashire Energy HQ apprentices have been shortlisted for a prestigious national award in the category of Apprentice of the Year 2021.
Elizabeth Barr and Natasha Dunkinson are both apprentices on the Aerospace Engineering Degree Apprenticeship based at the LEHQ campus of Blackpool and The Fylde College, and are both undertaking their apprenticeship with BAE Systems Air. Their hard work and dedication has been recognised by the Engineering Talent Awards 2021, powered by EqualEngineers, who celebrate the diversity of the engineering and technology profession.
The Apprentice of the Year category recognises not just the achievement in their role as an engineer, but also their work as an ambassador for the engineering profession to inspire more people to consider an apprenticeship as a viable career alternative. From the ETA website:
Studying whilst working is a big commitment and we recognise there is a way to go to challenge stereotypes about what apprenticeships are, and what an apprentice looks like.
The awards will raise the profile of the engineering and technology profession across the UK and highlight diversity in engineering on a national platform. Through showcasing role models and inspiring people to consider a career in engineering and technology, we will celebrate the diversity of organisations and engineers.
Natasha Dunkinson, who has just completed year three of the five-year apprenticeship programme, said:
I was humbled and shocked to have been shortlisted for the Engineering Talent Awards alongside four incredible engineers across the industry. The nomination would not have been possible without the guidance and support I have received throughout my apprenticeship, from BAE Systems and Blackpool and The Fylde College.
I am still overwhelmed I have been shortlisted and excited to network with engineers across the industry at the Gala Awards in London. I am beyond grateful for all the support along the way.
Tony Hanham, Apprenticeship Programme Manager at LEHQ, said:
This is a well-deserved nomination for both Elizabeth and Natasha in this category. Not only do they show dedication to their work, they also commit themselves to showcasing the engineering profession to a wider audience. Recently, for example, both of them took part in the International Women in Engineering Day 2021 (INWED) to celebrate the outstanding achievements of women engineers throughout the world.
We at LEHQ are proud that they have been recognised as finalists for this award and hope that they enjoy the celebration of their successes that they have earned.
The Engineering Talent Awards 2021 event is sponsored by SSE and is in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering. It takes place on 09 September 2021 at Leonardo Royal Hotel, London. Category winners of the Engineering Talent Awards 2021 will be announced on the night along with the Overall Excellence in Engineering award.
