The Copthorne Hotel in Brierley Hill, in the Dudley borough, played host to the Black Country Apprenticeship Awards 2025, organised by the Express & Star in partnership with The Ladder for the Black Country.
The event, hosted by Richard Williams, shone a spotlight on the rising stars from across different sectors of industry, ranging from construction and trades to healthcare, tech and hospitality firms, while the industry’s very best training providers were also recognised.
Mark Drew, Express & Star editor in chief, said: “Young people are often unfairly stereotyped, yet so many are working hard to shape their futures.
“These awards shine a spotlight on those making remarkable strides and show that we see and celebrate them.
“Apprenticeships are a powerful example of this, proving that learning and earning can go hand in hand. By blending education with real-world experience, apprentices are becoming adaptable, innovative professionals, closing skills gaps and strengthening our local economy.
“They stand proudly between both worlds — education and work — and are breaking barriers, building careers and driving progress.”
Hundreds of guests attended the event which began with a drinks reception, followed by a three-course meal, then the glittering awards ceremony which boasted 14 award categories – recognising outstanding apprentices from across the region and the employers and training providers who support them.
Read more, including the full list of winners, on Expressandstar.com.
