A Workington-based apprentice has been named as one to watch by prestigious awards representing the best in the North West manufacturing industry.

Jade Hughes, 19, of TSP Engineering, was shortlisted in the Engineering Rising Star category of the Make UK Awards.

She was up against apprentices from major employers across the North West and while she didn’t win, she was highly commended.

The awards recognise excellence among manufacturing companies and the Rising Star award is designed for apprentices who have done the most to seize the training and development opportunities presented to them during the early years of their engineering apprenticeship, making significant contribution to support the activities of their employer, and showing great potential for the future.

Judges said they were impressed with Jade’s skill, ambition, infectious personality and willingness to learn.

After her win, Jade, of Broughton, said: “I am unbelievably shocked, honoured and thrilled to be recognised as one of the rising stars in Engineering for the North West.

“For me, I just come to work and do my job to the best of my ability with a smile on my face, so for my employer and a national high-profile organisation such as Make UK to recognise my ability and work ethic is amazing.

“This proves anyone can achieve big things if they put their mind to it.”

Make UK is the representative voice of UK manufacturing, representing 20,000 companies across engineering, manufacturing, technology and the wider industrial sector.

Michelle Watson, HR advisor for TSP Engineering, which is based at Derwent Howe, said: “We are so proud of Jade, achieving this kind of recognition truly showcases her hard work and skill, pioneering the way for young women in engineering and manufacturing.

“ It was amazing to see so much talent at the awards, demonstrating the skill and passion we have in the North West, proving it’s a great place to live and work”.

Jade has worked for TSP Engineering, for two years and is currently going into her third year of an apprenticeship supported by local training provider Gen2.

John Coughlan, chief executive of TSP Engineering, added: “We are extremely proud of Jade for being highly commended at the regional heats of a major national manufacturing awards programme.

“Jade now joins a band of others at TSP Engineering who have received recognition and won prestigious UK awards, demonstrating the serious capability we have within the business.

“It’s fantastic to see local young talent be recognised for their attitude, skill and potential.

“It’s important we, as employers, educators and businesses continue to encourage and invest in our people, as they are going to be the future face of the industry and region.”

The awards were part of the North West annual dinner of Make UK, held in Manchester.