The awards organised, organised by the Express & Star in conjunction with the Ladder Apprenticeship Foundation, are a celebration of the outstanding individuals training providers and businesses shaping the region’s thriving apprenticeship community.
Read the full list of finalists here.
After a meticulous round of judging the 2025 shortlisted finalists across 14 craft categories have now been selected and they will now be invited to a glittering awards ceremony on November 20 when the winners will be announced.
The ceremony, which will take place at the Copthorne Hotel in Brierley Hill in the Dudley borough, will highlight the achievements of apprentices and the crucial roles played by employers and training providers in developing talent for the future.
A spokesperson for the Ladder Apprenticeship Foundation congratulated the finalists, saying: “On November 20, we will celebrate the outstanding achievements of apprentices and employers, along with the fantastic job training providers, colleges and universities do in shaping the future workforce and supporting individuals on their lifelong learning journey.
Amazing standard
“These awards honour the hard work, dedication and innovation that apprentices contribute to their employer, and the positive impact the apprenticeship brand has on the individual, be it their employment starting point, or upskilling to enable promotion and all the rewards that come with this.
“We continue to be amazed with the standard of applications and the contribution individuals can make locally, regionally and nationally.
“Thank you to the sponsors whose support make this celebration possible and good luck to all the finalists, who have achieved much just by being nominated as a finalist. We look forward to celebrating with you and recognising your achievements.”
An esteemed panel of judges comprising industry experts diligently reviewed every nomination to determine this year’s finalists and winners.
Mark Drew, editor-in-chief of the Express & Star, said: “The judging process was meticulous, reflecting the high calibre of submissions received. We extend our sincere thanks to the judging panel.
Invaluable expertise
“Their expertise and careful consideration have been invaluable in selecting a group of finalists that truly represent the passion, talent and ambition driving apprenticeships across the Black Country.”
He added: “The campaign has once again seen incredible entries from across the Black Country, with nominations submitted by apprentices themselves, employers, colleagues and training providers.
“Categories also recognise outstanding employers and mentors who go above and beyond to nurture apprenticeship talent.”
The awards follow the success of the 2024 awards, which were held at the Hawthorns. Taking the prize for overall Apprentice of the Year last year was Abbie Farr-Smith, who was described by judges as “an inspiring blend of determination and talent”, and by her employers at Walsall Council as an “inspiring and valued asset” in the local authority’s finance team. Abbie was also the winner of the professional services category.
