Adam Milward, a third-year Apprentice Technician at Vertu Motors Honda Derby, has been named Apprentice of the Year at the group’s annual Vertu Masters Awards.
The awards are open to non-management colleagues across the business and recognise strong performance across a range of roles.
The Apprentice of the Year category is awarded to an individual who has delivered excellent programme results alongside strong workplace performance.
Milward joined Vertu as a service valeter before making a career change and enrolling on the Honda Institute Technician apprentice programme.
He has since progressed through the scheme, becoming a valued member of the workshop team and earning recognition for his consistency and approach to the role.
“There probably aren’t many people in their 30s who take up an apprenticeship, but the opportunity to join the programme is one I didn’t want to miss,” said Milward.
“Being recognised with this award is unexpected, but something I am extremely proud of, and I hope that my decision to pursue the apprentice technician role will be the start of a long and successful career within Vertu.”
Rob Fletcher, general manager at Vertu Derby Honda, said Milward’s contribution to the workshop had exceeded expectations.
He said it “doesn’t feel like having an apprentice” in the team, citing his attitude and work ethic as “first class” and noting he is exceeding expected efficiencies by some margin.
Fletcher added that feedback from the Honda Institute has been consistently strong, with Milward highlighted as a role model for his peers.
While acknowledging the financial risk involved in changing career path, he said the decision had delivered a strong long-term asset for the business.
“It was a risk for Adam to take a step backwards in salary to take up an apprenticeship, but by taking a risk, we have found ourselves a gem of an apprentice technician who will, once qualified, stand himself and the dealership in good stead for years to come,” he said.
Robert Forrester, chief executive of Vertu Motors, said Milward’s approach reflected the opportunities available within the group’s apprenticeship programmes.
He added: “Adam is a fantastic example of someone who has seen an unexpected opportunity and has grabbed it with both hands
“His hard work and desire to make a success of his apprenticeship is clear to see and is reflected in this well-deserved award. We look forward to him being part of the group for many years to come.”