The hard work pays off for apprentice Gracie

When Gracie Walton began her apprenticeship in September 2023, she described herself as nervous and unsure of her voice. Just over a year later, she is an award-winning apprentice, a trusted representative for her peers, and a confident role model within her organisation.

Recently crowned winner of the Hard Working Award at the Luminate Apprenticeship Awards during National Apprenticeship Week, Gracie’s journey is a powerful example of how apprenticeships don’t just build technical expertise – they build confidence, leadership and character.

Based at Don Whitley Scientific Ltd, Gracie is completing the Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship Standard alongside a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering. She was nominated by her assessor, Phil Davidson, in recognition of her exceptional contribution both within the workplace and beyond her core role.

A trusted voice and positive role model

Since starting her apprenticeship, Gracie has developed into a confident and respected member of the team, building and testing specialist Anaerobic Workstations while continuing her studies at college one day a week.

Her assessor praised her for consistently putting herself forward to support colleagues and for acting as a trusted voice for fellow apprentices.

“Gracie consistently puts herself forward to help and support her colleagues, often acting as a trusted voice for team members when she feels they need representation,” he said. “She shares her opinions professionally and through the appropriate channels, including monthly apprentice catch-ups with the Engineering Director and HR.”

Gracie’s empathetic approach has made a real difference to those around her. When a fellow apprentice was off sick, she proactively volunteered to take notes during classes to ensure they didn’t fall behind. She has also embraced mentoring responsibilities, playing a key role in building the confidence of other apprentices within the company.

Alongside her technical role, Gracie is an active member of the company’s charity group. Working closely with colleagues, she independently organised two bake sales, demonstrating initiative, teamwork and a strong commitment to making a positive impact.

Choosing a different route

For Gracie, choosing an apprenticeship was a deliberate decision.

“I thought it’d be a different route to take,” she explained. “I was never really attracted to the idea of university. I wanted to gain experience from people who are actually doing the job, while earning money at the same time.”

Her typical week includes one day at Keighley College learning new theory and completing assignments, followed by hands-on work building and testing workstations – a process that can take several weeks from start to finish. She also undertakes additional training on new products, continually expanding her technical knowledge.

Growing in confidence

Beyond technical skills, Gracie says the apprenticeship has transformed her confidence.

“When I first started, I was quite nervous,” she said. “Over time I’ve become much more confident, and that’s helped me to have a voice within the company.”

One of her proudest moments was receiving a Team Working Award – something she once would not have imagined.

“Past me found working in a team quite hard as I’m naturally quite quiet and nervous. Winning an award for helping others in a team and giving them a voice is something I’m really proud of.”

Gracie credits the support of colleagues Clare and Fergus for helping her succeed.

“They’re a great support system and always want the best for us. Just knowing someone is in your corner and won’t settle for low standards makes a big difference.”

Looking ahead

After completing her apprenticeship, Gracie hopes to progress onto an Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND) in Electrical Engineering. Longer term, she is keen to explore opportunities across different areas of the business, including sales, service or research and development, to broaden her understanding and experience.

Having now been crowned Hard Working Award winner, Gracie is a powerful advocate for apprenticeships.

“Yes, I’d definitely recommend an apprenticeship. You gain real experience, earn money while you learn, and meet experienced people with amazing knowledge. It opens up opportunities you might not get through other routes.”

Gracie’s story is a testament to the transformative power of apprenticeships and the impact one determined individual can have on a workplace community.