This year’s Innovation and Learning Festival 2025 marks the exciting debut of the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards, celebrating the exceptional contributions of young professionals in the early stages of their careers within the highways and transport technology sector.
As part of these awards, we’re thrilled to launch the Inspiring the Future: Attracting Young People to the Highways and Transport Technology Sector competition. This initiative is designed to discover the creative ideas that will inspire and attract young people to careers in the highways and transport technology sector.
About the Competition
The highways and transport technology sector plays a crucial role in shaping sustainable, efficient, and connected infrastructure. However, many young people remain unaware of the exciting career opportunities it offers.
We’re calling for the big ideas that will help to address this challenge to inspire the next generation and show them the potential opportunities available across the sector. Whether it’s a compelling campaign, a groundbreaking initiative, or a creative new approach, we want to hear your ideas!
The Challenge
Submit your creative solutions, campaigns or initiatives, in a format of your choice. Your submission should outline:
- Why your approach would work
- How it could have a positive and lasting impact
Prizes for the Winning Entry
The winning idea will be rewarded with:
- £1000 cash prize
- Prestigious sector recognition at the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards during the Innovation & Learning Festival
- A place on the LCRIG Apprenticeship Task Group
Ready to share your ideas? View criteria and enter here.
Details
Eligibility criteria: The nominee must be enrolled in, or have completed, an apprenticeship programme in highways or transport technology within the last 12 months.
Please note that shortlisted entries will be required to be represented at the awards presentation.
The awards presentation will take place on the afternoon of 2nd July, just before the evening networking event. This relaxed and informal celebration will shine a spotlight on the incredible talent and growth driving the future of our sector.
To make participation accessible, fully funded places are available for apprentices from both the public and private sectors.
Book your fully funded place here.
Celebrate the Future
Let’s honour the achievements of our apprentices and inspire the next generation to pursue exciting careers in the highways and transport technology sector!