We’re delighted to share that the response to this year’s awards has been exceptional, with a fantastic level of engagement from across the highways sector.
Ahead of the shortlist being announced in May, we wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has taken the time to submit an entry and to congratulate those who have been nominated.
This year we have seen a 49% increase in submissions compared to 2025. We’ve also seen a significant rise in the number of organisations taking part, with a 67% increase compared to 2025. It’s been fantastic to see both returning organisations and a strong number of new entrants getting involved.
This year’s nominees are:
- Adam Kerr – Eurovia
- Aiden Leigh Power – Wilde Consultants
- Alex Payne – Dorset Council
- Amelia Hollingworth – Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council
- Annabelle Farrington – Amey
- Anthony Delahunty – Eurovia
- Austin Hand – Transport for West Midlands
- Bailey Colman – Cheshire East Highways
- Brandon Jones – Rochdale Borough Council
- Cameron Theaker – Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council
- Chloe Kirkby – North East Lincolnshire Council
- Chloe Lyons – Cheshire East Highways
- Chris Maude – CORMAC
- Dan Tedstill – Northumberland County Council
- Ella Bardgett – CORMAC
- Faizan Kayani – London Borough of Newham
- Faye Baker – Wilson & Scott Highways Ltd
- Grish Lohani – Wiltshire Council
- Holly Clapp – Arcadis
- Jack Anderson – Ayrshire Road Alliance
- Jack Showghian – Balfour Beatty
- James Lloyd – CORMAC
- James Rickard – Cornwall Highways
- James Ward – Warwickshire County Council
- Joanne Iddon – CORMAC
- Jordan Alexander – Northumberland County Council
- Joseph McDade – Breedon Group
- Joshua Graham – Argyle NW
- Kyle O’Neill – Wilde Consultants
- Louie Drinkwater – WSP
- Lukasz Zinco – Galliford Try Infrastructure
- Lydia Knight – CORMAC
- Maxwell James – Leeds City Council
- Morgan Perry – National Highways
- Oliver Lewin-Grey – Eurovia
- Reece Kerens – Ringway – Hertfordshire
- Sarah Smalley – Central Bedfordshire Council
- Taran Murva – Breedon Group
- Tarun Rowland – CORMAC
- William Fletcher – Breedon Group
- William Atkinson – A E Yates
- William Burgess – Northumberland County Council
- Yanmi Orebowale – National Highways
Employers Award Nominees:
- Central Bedfordshire Council
- CORMAC
- Eurovia Infrastructure
- Gloucestershire County Council – Highways Skills Academy
- Huyton Asphalt
- Liverpool City Council
- Tarmac
- Wilde Consultants
What’s Next?
Following the shortlist announcement in May, the winners will be announced on 24 June 2026 at the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards, sponsored by WJ Group.
The awards form part of the LCRIG Innovation & Learning Festival 2026, taking place at NAEC Stoneleigh from 24-25 June. The event brings together industry leaders, local authorities, and innovators for a relaxed and celebratory evening recognising the next generation of talent.
There’s Still Time to Enter the Apprentice Competition
Following strong interest and a number of requests for additional time, the deadline for the Future of Local Roads: Apprentice Innovation Competition has been extended by one month.
Entries now close: 5pm on Friday 1st May 2026. By taking part, apprentices have the opportunity to win a £1,000 cash prize and gain sector-wide recognition. Find out more here.
Awards Evening
Individual delegate places and tables are available, with fully funded places for apprentices. Join us to celebrate the achievements of the next generation of highways and transport professionals.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Organisations interested in supporting and celebrating the future workforce of our sector can also explore award sponsorship opportunities. Find out more here.
Thank you to Our Award Sponsors
- WJ Group
- map16
- Triopsis
- Multevo