MP recognises first EEF apprentices to graduate

Forty apprentices aged 17 to 25 received certificates and awards. Nine were singled out for special awards and prizes after being nominated by trainers impressed by their attitude and achievements. The presentations were made in front of an audience of family, friends, employers and training centre staff. James Attebery, aged 21, was named Apprentice of the Year after demonstrating determination and dedication to achieve his training goals. He is set to forge a career in engineering at UTC Aerospace Systems in Marston Green, Birmingham. Mahmood, MP for Perry Barr, Birmingham, said: "Earlier this year I was delighted to open this exciting and innovative college – now I'm even more delighted to be giving out awards to its first group of successful apprentices. "I'm a trained engineer myself so take a keen interest in seeing the great projects that these apprentices have been involved in. Their achievements have been nothing short of world-class and I firmly believe that they will do the sector and Birmingham proud. We have a great manufacturing heritage and today I'm very pleased to be able to say that with the high quality and talent of these young apprentices, Birmingham's reputation for manufacturing is in very safe hands."