We are delighted to unveil the first group of esteemed judges for the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards. These prestigious awards celebrate exceptional talent and professional growth within the highways and road infrastructure technology sector, recognising the outstanding contributions of young professionals in the early stages of their careers.
Meet Our Judges
Phillip Proctor – Head of Research at National Highways
Phillip Proctor is a Chartered Engineer with the Institution of Engineering. With over 25 years of experience in transport research, Phillip brings deep expertise in driving innovation and evidence-based decision-making across the sector. Prior to joining National Highways, he worked at Toshiba UK and holds a degree in Satellite Communication Engineering.
Phillip said:
“I’m honoured to be judging the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards at the Innovation & Learning Festival. It’s a privilege to celebrate the passion, creativity and dedication of apprentices who are shaping the future of transport. I’m looking forward to seeing the outstanding contributions that are making a real difference.”
Ian Large – Head of Service, Highways and Traffic Management at Blackpool Council
Ian is Chair of the LCRIG Infrastructure Innovation Board. In addition, he is also a Fellow of the Institute of Highway Engineers, Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation, Chartered Manager Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute and Fellow of the Institute of Leadership and Management.
Ian said:
“I’m delighted to be a judge for the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards at the Innovation & Learning Festival. These awards shine a vital light on the next generation of talent in our highways and transport technology sector, celebrating apprentices who bring fresh energy, real innovation and genuine drive to their roles. It’s a privilege to support and champion their achievements, and I look forward to helping recognise the outstanding contribution they’re already making.”
Keely Metcalfe – Relationship Manager at LCRIG
Keely is Relationship Manager at LCRIG and serves as Chair of the LCRIG Apprenticeship Task Group. She is currently undertaking a Level 3 Women in Leadership Team Leader apprenticeship, further strengthening her leadership skills and commitment to professional development within the sector.
Keely said:
“I’m really excited to be returning as a judge for the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards. As a current apprentice and Chair of the Apprentice Task Group, I’m passionate about supporting emerging talent and I’m especially proud to help shine a light on the amazing work apprentices are doing to shape the future of our sector.”
Thank You to Our Judges
We extend our sincere thanks to our panel of judges for their time, expertise and dedication in evaluating this year’s award entries.
Thank You to Our Award Sponsors
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors for their generous support of the 2026 Apprentice Awards. Their support makes these awards possible and demonstrates their commitment to developing the next generation of industry talent.
2026 Apprentice Awards Evening Sponsor: WJ Group
2026 Apprentice Award Sponsors:
- Map16 Asset Management
- Multevo
- Triopsis
- WJ Group
Stay Tuned
We will be announcing the remaining judges in the coming weeks, so watch this space!
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Enter or Nominate a Deserving Apprentice
The DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards form part of the Innovation & Learning Festival. Join us in celebrating the achievements of apprentices and shining a spotlight on the incredible talent and growth driving the future of our sector.
Submit your entries by Friday, 27 March 2026 at 17:00.