A Northumberland College engineering apprentice’s passion for work and skills development has been recognised by Britain’s leading manufacturing organisation.
Josh Harrison, who is studying an Engineering Technician apprenticeship at Ashington Campus while working at Blyth-based Universal Wolf, was named runner-up in the ‘Rising Star’ category of the North East, Yorkshire and Humberside Make UK Manufacturing Awards.
Developed for apprentices who have ‘done the most to seize the training and development opportunities presented to them’, the award showcases their achievements and the contributions they have made to their employer.
Kris Archer, Engineering Assessor at Northumberland College, said: “Josh had a difficult start to his apprenticeship due to personal issues and the pandemic, and was almost withdrawn from the programme. He worked hard, turned things around and is now a valuable member of the Universal Wolf team.
“The Make UK Awards are a brilliant way of highlighting the rising talent within the engineering sector and seeing how far Josh has come was amazing. He has shown that tough times can get better.
“His success wouldn’t have been possible without his dedication and the support of the Engineering curriculum team at Northumberland College and Universal Wolf.”
The Make UK Manufacturing Awards highlight and celebrate manufacturers and their apprentices who have done exceptional work in the sector, celebrating their dedication, resilience, and ingenuity.
A spokesperson for Universal Wolf said: “Josh was nominated in recognition of his passion for his work, development of his skills and contribution to the ‘wolf pack’.
“He has shown a willingness and appetite to step up to a challenge and made a great contribution to his team.”
Meanwhile, former Northumberland College student Sophie Laidlaw came runner up in the ‘Apprentice Final Year’ category, two years after winning the ‘Rising Star’ award.
Sophie, who studied Level 3 Engineering before progressing to an apprenticeship with advanced manufacturing firm Tharsus, was praised for how she has used her training to bring success to the projects she is involved in, while also being an ambassador within the community, and inspiring others to follow the apprenticeship path.
We are the largest further education provider in Northumberland with campuses throughout the county.
Our student transport scheme is available for eligible students to make getting to and from college as easy as possible.
Our extensive re-development programme will create outstanding new facilities.
Northumberland College, as part of college group EPNE, receives an Outstanding rating across the board in its latest Ofsted inspection.
November 26, 2024
Northumberland College Zoo at Kirkley Hall has won Small Visitor Attraction of the Year in North East Tourism Awards.
July 8, 2025
Students at Northumberland College have participated in a hygiene poverty project, as part of a Clean Start in Life research.
June 22, 2025
