The quality of nominations for an apprentice award at a city repairs company were so high that extra prizes were given out.
Unitas, the company responsible for maintaining council homes and buildings in Stoke-on-Trent, held its fifth annual competition, with Gas Engineer Nathan Heron being announced as the winner of the Tracy Chattin Apprentice of the Year 2023.
The 19-year-old, who was nominated by his line manager was among four nominees throughout the business and was commended for his willingness to attend events, showing high standards and was described by his college lecturers as “a dream student who takes everything in. His ability is one of the best I have seen in my years of lecturing.”
Nathan also demonstrated a strong range of skills and excellent feedback from everyone he works with.
He was was rewarded with a framed certificate and an Amazon voucher as well as a celebratory lunch. His name will be added to a plaque in the Unitas Reception.
Fellow Gas Engineer Kiah Russell received the Chairs Community Champion Award, whilst runners up Nathan Williams, an apprentice electrician, and Apprentice SHE Advisor Katie Ford were also given prizes.
Unitas has taken on 28 apprentices in its five years of business and over 100 submissions were made when applications recently opened for six new apprentice positions.
Director Stephen Garner said: “Having an apprenticeship isn’t just about getting the necessary skills and great training; it can be a stepping stone to a fantastic career whilst providing an opportunity to realise your future aspirations.
“It’s fantastic to join an organisation such as Unitas that embraces apprenticeships and helps our home-grown talent to thrive and creates our next generation of Unitas employees.
“On a more personal note, I’d like to say a massive ‘well done and congratulations’ to all our nominees and I wish you every success with your future careers at Unitas.”
