Ipswich engineer wins national Apprentice of the Year

Why it matters: Xenia is a Subsea Network Engineering Professional at BT, where her work helps maintain the underwater cable estate that connects the UK mainland with its smaller islands, as well as with Europe and beyond. She helps keep Britain connected to the world.

The bigger picture: She completed the Level 6 BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions (Software Engineering) degree apprenticeship at the University of Suffolk last year, graduating with first class honours at the October ceremonies on Ipswich Waterfront — despite starting the programme with no prior coding experience.

The details: The apprentice of the year award recognised a string of exceptional achievements throughout her apprenticeship.

Ward judges were also impressed by her focus on sustainability and cost-saving initiatives, her technical knowledge-sharing sessions, leadership roles within project teams, and her work as an engagement representative strengthening communication between staff and management.

The win follows her Professional Development Award at the IT and Digital Apprenticeships Awards in 2024.

What they're saying: "I feel very happy and honoured to win the Apprentice of the Year award," said Xenia. "I didn't have a technical background before starting the apprenticeship and felt like I had a lot of catching-up when I first started. Now that I have completed my apprenticeship, it is rewarding to have my hard work recognised with this award."

Yvonne Malpass, director of apprenticeships at the University of Suffolk, said: "Winning Apprentice of the Year is a tremendous achievement for Xenia, and we are thrilled her hard work and dedication has been rewarded with this award. Throughout her time on the apprenticeship, Xenia has demonstrated exceptional standards of work, and it has been wonderful to see her continue to thrive with BT beyond her studies."

Jane Atkinson, senior manager of BT's Subsea Team, said: "Xenia's recognition as Apprentice of the Year is richly deserved. It reflects the mindset she brings every day: a willingness to learn, to challenge, and to go beyond expectations. Xenia is a brilliant example of what can be achieved through apprenticeships, demonstrating that they are a high-performance pathway to shaping the future."

The bottom line: Xenia started with no technical background, no coding experience, and a degree in literature. She leaves her apprenticeship as a national award winner protecting some of the most critical infrastructure in the country.

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