Coventry University apprentices win engineering awards

Jessica Smith, a Level 5 BEng Building Services Engineering apprentice, won the CIBSE WM Education Award 2020, beating four other finalists. She was awarded for her work with global engineering company, Arup. The judges also commended her for providing a longstanding contribution to STEM activities, including promoting engineering within schools.

Elliot Price, a Level 4 apprentice on the same course at the time of the awards in December but now on Level 5, won the Young Engineer Award. Elliot has come a long way in the last four years from working on site to becoming a consultant with engineering firm Hoare Lea. The judges were impressed by his work at the NHS Nightingale Hospital in Birmingham, and his mentorship, training and leadership of others within the team at Hoare Lea.  

The awards were presented via virtual stream. 

Commenting on her award success, Jessica said: “It is an honour to be recognised by CIBSE for the West Midlands Education Award. I am excited to continue learning and furthering my engineering career through my apprenticeship at Arup and Coventry University. As I progress, I aim to keep using my experiences to inspire a younger generation to become part of the industry.” 

Stephen Austin, Head at the School of Energy, Construction and Environment, Coventry University, said: “As a school, we are thrilled to see our apprentices winning these awards and send our congratulations to them for demonstrating their employability through hard work, diligence and professionalism. We offer apprenticeships across a range of construction disciplines and specialisms, including Civil Engineering, Building Services Design Engineering, Construction Site Management, Environmental Practitioner, Rail Engineering Advanced Technician and Chartered Surveying. We currently have vacancies in all these subjects, and those who would like to become an apprentice can apply for one of these through one of our partner organisations.” 

Coventry University has partnered with some of the UK’s biggest companies to deliver its highly commended apprenticeships programme, including Arup, WSP, Atkins, Aecom and Motts.

The degree apprenticeship scheme is a great initiative that can offer huge benefits all round.

Industry has the opportunity to upskill staff via a structured programme that can provide competitive advantage and future growth, while apprentices can gain access to expertise that helps ensure their skills stay relevant and up-to-date. With Coventry University, learners can gain professional as well as academic qualifications.