Business

Young talent hailed at Apprentice awards

Gareth harkness, an apprentice engineer from Ballymena, has been crowned apprentice of the Year 2014. Gareth (19) is completing his apprenticeship in engineering at Northern regional College, Ballymena. He is employed by Ryobi aluminium Castings in Carrickfergus, which produces car engine castings that are distributed worldwide. Congratulating the winners employment and learning minister Stephen Farry said: "the array of talent on display

today is testament to the high level of skills and talent that exists in Northern Ireland. I congratulate Gareth, the apprentice of the Year, and all the other apprentices here today on their achievements and wish them continued success in their chosen careers. Gareth is an excellent example of how an apprentice can form an integral part of a company". The other award up for grabs on the day, the Innovation in Partnership award, was won by terex Powerscreen, Dungannon and South West College, Dungannon.