Kildare apprentice wins major award in national competition

The National Apprenticeship Office has named Cork-based apprentice, Hazel Johnston as national ‘Apprentice of the Year’ 2023. Studying at Munster Technological University, Hazel is a Manufacturing Engineering apprentice with DePuy Synthes Cork and stands as the first-ever female ‘Apprentice of the Year’ at the independently judged Generation Apprenticeship awards.

There was great success for the Leinster region with Auctioneering and Property Services apprentice, Lisa O’Sullivan taking home a category award in the ‘ICT, Property Services, Recruitment and Sales’ category, while Google ICT apprentice Paul King also won a top category award at the awards ceremony from a record number 222 nominations of top apprentice talent across Ireland.

Hailing from Newbridge, County Kildare, Paul King expressed delight at his unexpected win. Working as a Software Develop Associate apprentice with Google Ireland, he said: “I just feel elated. I am just delighted. I think even more than being delighted for myself, I am delighted to have my Mum and Dad be here at the awards. Generation Apprenticeship has been the most transformative programme, that has basically shaped my entire career. It’s just brilliant to have won an award.” 

Minister Simon Harris TD said: " Congratulating to Hazel and all apprentices. I especially want to congratulate Hazel on her fantastic achievement. As a Department, we are working hard to increase the number of females taking up apprenticeships and, while it is heartening to see the numbers increase every year, we know much more needs to be done. Hazel, and the many other female apprentices pursuing their dream careers across Ireland, should act as an inspiration to others considering the path they want to take in life".

Lisa O’Sullivan is from Rathangan, County Wicklow and is delighted to develop her career as an apprentice, and was elated to take home a top category award.

Commenting on her learning journey as an apprentice she said: “I am so grateful for the apprenticeship program, which granted me the chance to learn through hands-on experience. Unlike a traditional academic path, this practical approach allowed me to excel in college while avoiding the financial constraints of full-time education.”

After winning the award, she said: “I want to say a huge thank you to DNG Ella Dunphy for taking a chance on me! They advertised a role 2 years ago looking for a part-time receptionist and I talked them into giving me a full-time apprenticeship! I am honoured to even just be nominated for ‘Apprentice of the Year’ and now I can’t believe I have won this incredible award. Looking forward to the exciting journey ahead! 

Dr Mary Liz Trant, Director of the National Apprenticeship Office said:

 ”The NAO was delighted to present the national ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award for 2023 to Hazel Johnson and 14 exceptional finalists including Paul and Lisa from a 26,000-strong Generation Apprenticeship community of dedicated apprentices.”

“Apprentices are transforming the landscape of Ireland’s skilled workforce, bringing exceptional creativity and innovation, adaptability, leadership, fresh perspectives and a steadfast eagerness to learn that makes them valuable additions to any industry or workforce. The ‘Apprentice of the Year’ awards not only celebrate the apprentices nominated but also the power and impact of apprenticeship as a mode of learning and career development. The ongoing focus on continuous improvement within the apprenticeship system enables businesses to share their knowledge and expertise with upcoming talented apprentices of all ages and backgrounds.”