We are delighted to announce the shortlist for the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards 2026. These prestigious awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of apprentices at the early stages of their careers within the highways and road infrastructure technology sector, as well as the employers who champion apprenticeship delivery.
This year has seen a record number of submissions, making shortlisting an even greater accomplishment.
Winners will be revealed on 24th June 2026 at the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards, proudly sponsored by WJ Group.
The awards form part of the LCRIG Innovation & Learning Festival 2026, taking place at NAEC Stoneleigh from 24th-25th June. The awards presentation will take place during an evening networking event, bringing together industry leaders, local authorities, and innovators for a relaxed and celebratory occasion dedicated to recognising the next generation of talent.
Charlotte Bromley, Head of Events at LCRIG, shared her enthusiasm:
“The response this year has been exceptional, with more entries than ever before. We are incredibly grateful to our judges for their time and dedication in reviewing submissions, and to all the apprentices and organisations who entered. These awards offer a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on the outstanding emerging talent within our sector.”
DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards 2026 Shortlist
Exceptional Frontline Apprentice
- William Burgess, Northumberland County Council
- Anthony Delahunty, Eurovia
- Adam Kerr, Eurovia
- Chris Maude, CORMAC
- James Rickard, CORMAC
Inspirational Apprentice
- Bailey Colman, Cheshire East Highways
- Adam Kerr, Eurovia
- Chloe Kirkby, North East Lincolnshire Council
- Yanmi Orebowale, National Highways
- Lukasz Zinco, Galliford Try Infrastructure
Outstanding Achievement – Level 2 Apprenticeship
- Reece Kerens, M Group – Ringway
- Joshua Graham, Argyle North West
- William Fletcher, Breedon Group
- Oliver Lewin-Grey, Eurovia
- Cameron Theaker, Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council
- Chloe Lyons, Cheshire East Highways
Outstanding Achievement – Level 3 Apprenticeship
- Brandon Jones, Rochdale Borough Council
- Aiden Leigh Power, Wilde Consultants
- Kyle O’Neill, Wilde Consultants
- Tarun Rowland, CORMAC
- Sarah Smalley, Central Bedfordshire Council
- Dan Tedstill, Northumberland County Council
Outstanding Achievement – Level 4-6 Apprenticeship
- Holly Clap, Arcadis
- Annabelle Farrington, Amey
- Chloe Kirby, North East Lincolnshire Council
- Lydia Knight, CORMAC
- Jack Showghian, Balfour Beatty
Excellence in Apprenticeship Delivery – Employer Award
- Central Bedfordshire Council
- CORMAC
- Eurovia Infrastructure
- Huyton Asphalt
- Tarmac
Future of Local Roads: Apprentice Innovation Competition
The winner of this year’s competition will be revealed at the awards ceremony on 24th June.
Awards Evening
Individual delegate places are available, including fully funded places for apprentices. To find out more and secure your place, please click here.
Sponsorship and Table Host Opportunities
Organisations looking to support and celebrate the future workforce of the sector are invited to explore our award sponsorship opportunities. Table host packages are also available, offering the chance to host up to six guests at your table during the awards ceremony and evening networking event. Find out more.
Thank you to Our Award Sponsors
Congratulations to all those who have been shortlisted and thank you to everyone who submitted an entry this year.
Join us for an evening of celebration, recognition, and inspiration as we announce the winners.
For more information and to reserve your place, please click here.