Winners announced at the 2025 Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards

The winners of the Department for the Economy’s annual Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards were announced today.

Speaking after the awards ceremony in Belfast City Hall, Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary at the Department for the Economy, said: “All of the finalists in this year’s awards are proof of the positive impact that apprenticeships can have.

“These awards are an opportunity to celebrate the fantastic achievements of our apprentices, their employers and mentors, and our excellent training providers.

“With almost 13,000 apprentices and higher level apprentices right across Northern Ireland, it is clear that this pathway to a successful career is increasingly popular.”

Congratulating the award winners, Mr Snowden added: “The winners of the NI Apprenticeship Awards represent the best of local talent, and their success is testament to their hard work and dedication.”

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald extended her congratulations to all involved. She said: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the nominees and winners at this year’s NI Apprenticeship Awards. Your dedication and excellence exemplify the transformative impact of apprenticeships on individuals, businesses, and our economy as a whole.”

The 2025 winners are:

Apprentice of the Year Award

Ebony Murtagh, employed at M&W Meats, studying at Southern Regional College

Higher Level Apprentice of the Year Award

Ryan McCall, employed at M&R Property Group, studying at Queen’s University Belfast

Public Sector Apprentice of the Year Award

Sarah Welsh, employed at Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, studying at Belfast Metropolitan College

Small to Medium Enterprise Award

JMG Systems in partnership with South West Regional College

Large Employer Award

Citi in partnership with Ulster University

Mentor Award