The Department for the Economy has announced the 2024 winners of their annual Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards.

Speaking at the awards ceremony in Titanic Belfast, Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary at the Department for the Economy, said: "The Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the exceptional achievements of our apprentices, their employers and mentors, and our training providers."

Congratulating the winners, Ian Snowden added: "The Department for the Economy remains dedicated to supporting and promoting apprenticeships. We want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has equal access to the skills and qualifications necessary to succeed. This includes addressing the specific needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds and ensuring employers have access to skilled apprentices who can contribute to their organisations."

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Congratulating the winners, Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: "Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to upskill and reskill and enhance your career prospects. They also provide employers with the pipeline of talented people they need to grow their business and be competitive. All of this year's finalists and award winners can be very proud of their achievements and I congratulate them all on their hard work and dedication."

The 2024 winners are:

The Apprentice Award

Andrew Smyth, employed at Thales UK Ltd, studying at South Eastern Regional College

The Higher Level Apprentice Award

Joanne McCubbin, employed at Manfreight Ltd, studying at South West College

The Public Sector Apprentice Award

Ashling Ying, employed at the Department of Finance, studying at Belfast Metropolitan College

The Small to Medium Enterprise Award

Irwin Mechanical & Electrical Ltd in partnership with Southern Regional College

The Large Employer Award

Galgorm Collection in partnership with Belfast Metropolitan College

The Mentor Award

Helen Goodrich, Almac

The Diversity and Inclusion Award

Deloitte

More information on the Apprenticeship Awards 2024 can be found on the Department's website at Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards