Colleen O’Boyle, Manufacturing Engineer at Mallaghan has been named as joint winner of the Higher-Level Apprentice Award at this year’s Northern Ireland Apprentice Awards.
The awards, which took place at the Titanic Hotel, Belfast on 6th February, recognise apprentices who are making a significant contribution in their workplace and have shown a dedication to excel in their professional development and learning.
“Colleen has shown enthusiasm and a wholehearted willingness to learn throughout her apprenticeship, and we are so pleased that her talent has been recognised at the Northern Ireland Apprentice Awards.
“On behalf of the entire Mallaghan team I would like to congratulate Coleen on this fantastic achievement.”
Headquartered in Dungannon, Mallaghan operates from seven locations globally. The organisation’s apprenticeships are delivered in partnership with South West College. The programme is part of the company’s commitment to recruiting and retaining engineering talent within the Mid-Ulster region.
Speaking of her achievement, Colleen said: “I am thrilled to have been named joint winner of the Higher Level Apprentice Award along with Will Bradley employed by BT.
“My apprenticeship with Mallaghan really prepared me for the world of work and I’m lucky enough to now be a full-time employee.
“Apprenticeships really do present superb opportunities for young people looking to get that first foot on the career ladder and I would encourage those at school or college to really consider apprenticeships in areas of interest to them.”
Speaking at the awards ceremony Economy Minister Diane Dodds said: “I want to commend all those who were shortlisted for this year’s awards and congratulate the 2020 winners.
“There are over 8,300 apprentices, including higher level apprentices, currently on apprenticeship programmes funded by the Department for the Economy, so to be nominated for these awards is testament to your hard work and dedication.
“I would also like to acknowledge the work being done by the employers and training providers. Without your commitment and enthusiasm, we wouldn’t be able to run these programmes. Apprenticeship programmes help us equip people with the skills and qualifications needed to support economic growth and develop our economy.”
