AN APPRENTICE at Teesside automotive parts manufacturer ElringKlinger (GB) has scooped a prestigious award at the Redcar & Cleveland Council PRIDE Awards.
Connor Darby, 23, was named joint winner of The Geoff Waterfield Memorial Trophy in recognition of his hard work as part of the ElringKlinger (GB) apprenticeship programme.
The awards, which took place at youth organisation Tuned In! in Redcar, celebrated the achievements of staff, apprentices and volunteers in the North East, and highlighted their contributions to the life of the local community.
The Geoff Waterfield Memorial Trophy was one of two awards open to the public for nominations, and celebrates the achievements of an outstanding apprentice in the region.
Award-winner Connor is currently studying his apprenticeship with ElringKlinger (GB) through the Northern Skills Group STEM Centre and is a North East Young Apprentice Ambassador.
Connor said: “It’s an honour to have received The Geoff Waterfield Memorial Trophy at the PRIDE Awards. As a North East Young Apprentice Ambassador, I’m passionate about educating other young people about apprenticeships as an alternative to the traditional university route.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunities that ElringKlinger (GB) has given me throughout my apprenticeship so far. Through combining theory work in college with hands-on work experience I’m learning the key skills to go far in the manufacturing industry. I’m delighted to have my hard work as an ElringKlinger (GB) apprentice and passion for engineering recognised.”
Ian Malcolm, managing director of ElringKlinger (GB), added: “We are extremely proud of our apprentice Connor for receiving this award. Through our successful apprenticeship programme, we aim to support the manufacturing industry and to find the best young talent in the field.
“We believe that a combination of hands-on work experience and learning in college prepares our apprentices well, and provides them with the skill set needed for a career in this industry.
“Recognition of the work of our apprentices is always appreciated. Connor being recognised for The Geoff Waterfield Memorial Trophy in the PRIDE Awards is a fantastic achievement for both our apprenticeship programme and for Connor himself whose passion for learning and achieving has been acknowledged.”
For information on ElringKlinger (GB) apprenticeship programme, visit http://www.elringklingergb.co.uk/ekgb/careers/apprenticeships-at-ekgb/