Story

A Winner in 2023 South West Apprenticeship Awards

We’re delighted to share more awards success for another of our apprentices, this time in the 2023 South West Apprenticeship Awards.

Lewis, a Software Engineering apprentice based at our Bristol site, was announced as the Apprentice of the Year (Technology, Digital and Creative Sector) at a special event for all the nominees.

The awards celebrate apprentices of every level who’ve excelled over the last year in the South West, celebrating their outstanding accomplishments and their role in making an invaluable contribution to the region and its economy.

Backed by his manager, the judging panel saw the positive impact Lewis made on our business and his fellow apprentices. In addition to the effort Lewis puts into his apprenticeship placements, he supports a variety of events inside and outside our business, going out of his way to find different things to do and engage in.

In Lewis' own words...

Reacting to his win, Lewis said​​,“I was a bit stunned. I didn’t quite believe I deserved it at first. I was a bit emotional afterwards. I was pleased I could share the night with colleagues in the software department. It was a great night, which I hope to remember for a long time. It is one of the highlights of this year for me.” He also took the time to recognise his fellow nominees, adding, “I was up against very talented people who have proved they are more than capable and are excellent role models for those to come next.”

Lewis was also quick to thank those who helped him throughout his apprenticeship to date, without whom he wouldn’t have won his award. “My team lead, for his time, helping me grow into a better software engineer. My previous placement manager, for their continuous support throughout my apprenticeship. Being someone I could talk to if I needed guidance or support. Also our Bristol apprentices manager. They have always been there if I needed help, guiding me through difficult problems and just being a positive person to talk to. There are also my fellow apprentices, who made my journey far more enjoyable.” 

Thankful that he for the chance for all of this to happen and to make the most of it, Lewis is not resting on his laurels and is already looking to his future. He adds: “This award validates the hours I have invested in honing my skills and taking on new opportunities and signifies the hard work, dedication and passion I have poured into my apprenticeship. It will also help solidify my confidence in my skills and the drive to continue moving forward with my career.”

For others looking to follow in his footsteps for next year, Lewis advised​​​​:“Do it! Give it a go! Try areas you don't find interesting or might find difficult. When you get to the other side, you'll know if it’s really something you would want to do, or you'll be happy you’ve given it a go.”

Do you think you can follow in Lewis’s footsteps? Our four-year apprenticeship schemes provide you with a platform to study, work on exciting projects and make a valuable impact with the work you do, all while earning a salary.

You’ll work at one of our MBDA sites and study for your qualification via day release at university or college. We also organise bespoke training courses to further enhance and improve your skill set.

Click HERE to register your interest for our 2024 programme.