Former apprentice now full time employee at Glapwell Engineering Services Ltd, Joe Oakes, has been shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year in the Derbyshire Times Business Awards taking place this evening at the Casa Hotel in Chesterfield.
Joe was nominated because of the outstanding commitment he showed during his apprenticeship and how he constantly goes above and beyond what is asked of him to achieve academically and at work.
His employers describe him as “the best apprentice they have ever had” because of his positive attitude, trustworthiness and ability to use his initiative to complete tasks to an excellent standard. He chose to study more units than necessary to complete his apprenticeship because he was keen to develop his skills and knowledge.
During his apprenticeship Joe demonstrated a very high skill level so he was able to work on difficult and intricate projects that would normally be reserved for people with years more experience. This meant he was a valuable asset to the team almost immediately. Now a full time employee with Glapwell Contracting Services, Joe is a valued and highly productive member of the team. His skills allow him to work on a variety of the high-spec products the company manufactures for the power industry and engineering sector where the demand for high quality is vital.
His drive and determination have had a big impact in the workplace. Not only has having Joe as an extra member of the team allowed the company to be more productive it has also had a positive impact on other members of the team who have been inspired by Joe’s approach or have had a hand in mentoring him at work.
Ray Peet, Career Pathway Leader for Fabrication and Welding at Chesterfield College said “Joe has clearly benefitted from his apprenticeship and is set to have a promising career in engineering but he is also sharing his success and inspiring others. He has confidently mentored other students at college during his apprenticeship. He has inspired other students and apprentices to achieve or overcome obstacles because he commands a great deal of respect from his peers as a result of his skill level, achievements and his people skills. Everyone at college wishes him the best of luck in the awards and his future career.”
