The Awards, which are now in their sixth year, were held at the Grand Station in Wolverhampton.
Tricrest’s Daleep Bhogal was named as the ‘Peter Wood Outstanding Learner of the Year’ in front of over 350 people.
The trainee toolmaker impressed judges with his thirst for continuous improvement and how far he has developed over the last 12 months.
He was joined on stage by five other apprentices, including FBC Manby Bowdler’s Dixie Whitten, Brandauer’s Oliver Eskriett, Lee Matthews (RMD Kwikform), Morgan Goule (Beacon Mouldings) and Tom Weaver of Frank Dudley Ltd.
There was also recognition for Lee Pearson of Salop Design for his ‘Contribution to Engineering’, with Lichfield’s IMI Precision Engineering beating off competition from 20 firms to land the ‘Company of the Year’ title.
Rebecca Phillips, joint managing director of In-Comm Training, said: “Vocational learning is finally being given the recognition it deserves and this year’s awards again highlighted the outstanding talent we are developing in the West Midlands.
“We had over 250 entries this year, covering all aspects of engineering, manufacturing, business support and professional services. There were some fantastic stories of personal development, triumph over adversity and individuals starting to achieve their career ambitions.”
An industry-led judging panel was responsible for choosing the eventual winners, with the prizes given out by music legend and railway enthusiast Pete Waterman OBE.
Full list of 2017 winners, includes:
Daleep Bhogal (Tricrest Limited) – In-Comm Academy Learner of the Year and Peter Wood Memorial Award Outstanding Learner of the Year
Oliver Eskriett – (Brandauer) – Learner of the Year Engineering Manufacturing & Technologies
Maurice Hill (Lariot) – Learner of the Year Business Improvement Techniques
Dixie Whitten (FBC Manby Bowdler) – Learner of the Year Business Support
Lee Matthews (RMD Kwikform) – Learner of the Year Supervisory Management
Lee Pearson (Salop Design & Engineering) – Contribution to Engineering
IMI Precision – Employer of the Year
Tom Weaver (Frank Dudley Limited) – Special Recognition Award
Morgan Goule (Beacon Mouldings) – Most Improved Learner
