Eleven young agricultural engineers were recognised at the annual Apprenticeship Awards at the Midlands Machinery Show on Thursday 9 November. Each received £500 over two years to help in their future careers, with most choosing to invest in their own specialist toolkit.

“Supporting the best of the next generation of agricultural engineers is key for promoting careers withing the industry,” said Roger Jackson, chairman of the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society (NNAS), which sponsors the awards. “Through hands-on learning and experience, apprentices help cultivate a thriving and sustainable future for our farming communities. Providing a platform to help fund these young apprentices is crucial as now, more than ever, they deserve new and exciting opportunities to inspire them as they head into their future careers.”

Claiming their first year awards were: Joshua Whotton and Nathan Walls, who are working at Chandlers; Max Lumsden at Russells; Joe Slater and Joe Sweetmore from B&B Tractors; and Lewis Collins from Sharman’s Agricultural.

Stepping up to receive the second stage awards were: Aaron Barlow and Arun Slanley at B&B Tractors; Ryan Lomas at Chandlers; Robert Ward at Farol and Craig Redfern from Sharman’s Agricultural. “Since last year, Craig has now completed his apprenticeship and is fully qualified,” said Roger. “He recommends this award as something to be proud of. He believes it shows, not only to himself and his family, but his employer, that he has what it takes and the drive to always better himself. He recommends other apprentices to apply, as it is beneficial at whatever stage you’re at within your apprenticeship.”

Winners also received a Hydrokit Multimeter, and Pat White, president of the NNAS, commended the apprentices for their role in the farming sector. “You are the doctors of the agricultural industry; without you a lot of our equipment would fail,” he said. “Agricultural mechanics and technicians have been an integral part of our farm, and I hope you are incentivised and want to remain part of the agricultural family. What you do for farmers is very much appreciated and I wish you all the best for the future.”

• The 2024 Midlands Machinery Show will take place on 20-21 November. For more information visit www.midlandsmachineryshow.com.

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Contact for further information

Elizabeth Halsall
Events, Show and Development Manager
Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society
Organiser of Midlands Machinery Show T: 01636 705 796 E: [email protected] www.midlandsmachineryshow.com