Local talent: Leitrim woman takes home Apprentice of the Year award for second year

Leitrim woman Kelsey McGahan has received a national award at this year's Generation Apprenticeship ‘Apprentice of the Year’ awards in Dublin on Wednesday, October 23.

Kelsey won in the Logistics and Transport Category.

This is Kelsey’s second consecutive year winning the distinguished title. 

Kelsey, from Mohill, is undergoing a Logistics Associate Apprenticeship with Joe McGovern Transport in Bawnboy, Co Cavan.

Kelsey began with the company in 2022 and attends classes once a week in TU Dublin City Campus.

She sees many benefits to pursuing an apprenticeship, including hands-on experience, and as a state-funded program, there are no tuition fees.

Coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Office, the Apprentice of Year 2024 awards showcase the wonderful 28,000 strong community of apprentices who are transforming Irish workplaces, providing a source of superb talent and innovation.

The awards were held at the Mansion House, hosting over 500 guests. This year saw a record-breaking 400 plus nominations and featured 17 finalists.

Kelsey’s win highlights Leitrim talent, standing out among a record number of nominations.

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“The 400 outstanding apprentices nominated for an Apprentice of the Year award this year demonstrate the enormous wealth of talent we have in this country,” said Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science of Ireland, 

“I wish to offer my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one on their fantastic achievement. 

“Through the continued drive for transformation of the apprenticeship system, businesses of all sizes and sectors have so much to gain from a highly talented pool of apprentices,” he added.

Dr. Mary-Liz Trant, Director of the National Apprenticeship Office added: “The National Apprenticeship Office is delighted to be involved in hosting the national Apprentice of the Year awards for the third year running. 

“Apprentices are at the heart of Ireland’s skilled workforce, with remarkable attributes of leadership, teamwork, creativity and problem-solving. 

“These awards not only celebrate the nominees, but also the power and impact of apprenticeship as a mode of learning and career development for people of all ages and backgrounds across all 21st century industries in Ireland,” Dr Trant concluded.

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