A former DE&S Engineering apprentice based at HMNB Devonport has been announced as a finalist in a nationwide competition to recognise the best and the brightest apprentices and technicians.

Finalist Phoebe Loveridge is now set to join top apprentices at a prestigious award ceremony in London.

Phoebe said:

“When I received the news, I felt overwhelmed and thankful that the Apprentice team nominated me for the award. I am now looking forward to the ceremony in London in November to network with the other finalists.

“The DE&S Advanced Engineering Management Apprenticeship has offered a wide range of opportunities for me to develop as a person and attain a HNC in Marine Engineering. Completing the apprenticeship has enabled me to be successful through my job applications too.”

As part of National Apprenticeship Week earlier this year we spoke to Phoebe about the DE&S Advanced Engineering Management Apprentice scheme.

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Apprentice and Technician Awards scheme aims to raise the profile of the good work that apprentices and technicians contribute to engineering businesses. Pheobe was selected as an Apprentice finalist in recognition of her outstanding engineering or technical understanding and ability and her work as a role model.

Pheobe will now join the rest of the shortlisted applicants at the IET Achievement Awards Ceremony, which will take place in London on 14 November 2018, where the winner will be announced. The winner will walk away with a trophy, certificate, £1,000 and two years free membership of the IET. The IET will also cover the cost of the winner’s technician professional registration application fee, when they are ready to apply.

Linda Deleay, IET Awards and Prizes Manager, said:

“The standard of this year’s entries was extremely high. I am delighted to see an all-female shortlist, they are all incredible role models for women in STEM. All the finalists demonstrated skills and knowledge through their work that went far beyond their roles. Everyone on the shortlist is delivering significant impact very early in their careers and they all deserve the highest praise.”

Phoebe, who spends time attending local schools to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) activities, had this advice for anyone wanting to apply for any of the DE&S apprentice schemes:

“Take up every opportunity you can to get experience, ask as many questions as possible and always show you’re willing to learn.”