APPRENTICES FLY THE FLAG FOR CAREER SUCCESS IN MAJOR UK AWARDS

Two JCB apprentices are hoping for awards success after being shortlisted for major UK business honours.

Business Degree Apprentice Kerlin Biji has made the finals in the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards while Engineering Apprentice Oliver Sands is shortlisted in the prestigious Engineering Talent Awards.

Kerlin, 19, of Derby, is in her first year of studying for a Business Management and Leadership degree with Derby University and is a finalist in the Engineering and Manufacturing category of the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards. Having chosen the apprenticeship route over full-time university study, Kerlin, who is of Indian heritage, has overcome the challenges of moving to a new city from her hometown of Sunderland, while also managing a mobility disability.

Currently working at JCB World Parts Centre, Uttoxeter, Kerlin said: “Taking the apprenticeship was a big step for me but I love balancing the mix of work and study. JCB has also been great supporting me with my disability. To be shortlisted for the diversity award is a real honour and I hope to encourage others from different ethnic backgrounds to consider apprenticeships.”

Oliver, 22, of Solihull, who now lives in Uttoxeter, is shortlisted in the Engineering Apprentice of the Year category of the Engineering Talent Awards. The former Arden Academy student has just completed his Mechanical Engineering degree at Sheffield Hallam University. Oliver is one of the company’s STEM ambassadors and a mentor for new apprentices.

Oliver said: “I am really passionate about encouraging people to consider apprenticeships and changing perceptions about taking this career path. I have learned so much both at work and at university and it is a real privilege to represent the company at the awards.”

Kerlin and Oliver will both travel to their awards ceremonies in London, in September and October, respectively. To find out more about JCB apprenticeships and career opportunities visit https://earlycareers.jcb.com/apprenticeships.