At the annual ceremony celebrating the achievements of the latest group of apprentices to graduate from the EEF training centre ()www.eef.org.uk in Aston, 22-year-old Jessica Tozer from Gloucestershire was named Apprentice of the Year.

An apprentice at Avery Weigh-Tronix in Gloucester, she impressed her trainers with her ability, attitude and commitment. In her second year, she took on a challenging role in the company, which she managed successfully while still achieving high grades throughout her studies.

She said: “I’m delighted with the skills and opportunities my apprenticeship has provided. The support I have gained from both my employer and the EEF training team has been invaluable, and I’m now looking forward to driving my career even further forward.

“There are still some apprenticeship places left at the centre, so I would urge others to think seriously about applying. Manufacturing and engineering are a great career choice.”

Christine Chapman, the EEF’s Technology Training Centre manager, said: “Each year, I am impressed by the dedication, enthusiasm and drive that our apprentices bring to their training and to their jobs.

“Their achievements deserve recognition. These young people are the future of our industry; they are hard-working and committed.”