South Longford student crowned Apprentice of the Year
A Lanesboro student achieved a notable educational first when crowned Apprentice of the Year at a gala awards ceremony in Dublin’s Mansion House last Friday (October 20).
Munster Technological Student (MTU) student Hazel Johnston is the first ever female winner of the Apprentice of the Year.
Hazel, a Year 3 Manufacturing Engineering student in MTU, beat out over 200 apprentices to become Apprentice of the Year.
The award winning apprentice serves with DePuy Synthes, a global leader in orthopaedic trauma devices.
Hazel said she was “ absolutely shocked and thrilled” when she heard her name called out as Apprentice of the Year at the awards ceremony.
Hazel chose engineering at MTU because of their apprenticeship programme, saying that by the time she graduates she will have compelling industry experience
“From the moment I started in DePuy Synthes I was made to feel so welcome. Being nominated by the team there is great recognition for what I have accomplished. Likewise, at MTU, because there’s such a personal connection you’re never afraid to ask for help or assistance,” Hazel said.
The Lanesboro lady hopes the award will promote the apprenticeship route for other female students: “I hope my award inspires and encourages other female students to consider apprenticeships such as at MTU and just go for it,” Hazel said.
At the gala awards, Hazel was joined by MTU students Elaine Kavanagh and Nicolas Davies who were also nominated by their respective companies (Stryker and ESB Networks) for their outstanding work in their apprenticeships.
More than 220 apprentice award nominees attended the awards ceremony, with 14 finalists from eight different industry categories collecting awards including in Hospitality, Food and Healthcare, Hairdressing, Finance and Insurance, ICT, Property Services, Recruitment and Sales, Manufacturing Engineering, Biopharma, Logistics and Motor, Electrical and Construction.
Congratulating Hazel, Simon Harris, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, spoke of the importance of encouraging gender balance: “As a Department, we are working hard to increase the number of females taking up apprenticeships and, while it is heartening to see the numbers increase every year, we know much more needs to be done.
“Hazel, and the many other female apprentices pursuing their dream careers across Ireland, should act as an inspiration to others considering the path they want to take in life,” he said.
Speaking on Hazel’s award, MTU President Professor Maggie Cusack, said: “It's a huge honour for Hazel and recognition of her dedication and talent as well the entire MTU team, who have supported her throughout her education.
“Hazel's award is also testament to the successful relationships between MTU and our industry partners,” Professor Cusack said.