The National Apprenticeship Office has awarded Portarlington man, Ronan Dunne, Transport Operations and Commercial Driving apprentice – a top category award in the Generation Apprenticeship national ‘Apprentice of Year’ awards 2023.
Ronan was one of 14 finalists who won a prestigious award, out of a record 222 exceptional nominees put forward across every county in Ireland.
Some of the diverse areas represented in each category included leading industries representing Hospitality, Food and Healthcare, Hairdressing, and Finance and Insurance.
Pat O’Doherty Chairperson of the National Apprenticeship Alliance (NAA) announced the overall ‘Apprentice of the Year’ and presented 14 exceptional finalists with a prestigious award in front of a gathering of 500 guests in the Round Room of The Mansion House, Dublin.
Ronan is a proud Portarlington man, building skills and a rewarding career as a Transport Operations and Commercial Driving apprentice with Polar Ice Ltd.
Commenting on his learning journey he said: “I’m a full-time HGV driver with Polar Ice.
“I’m so passionate about logistics and I enjoy the diverse challenges and opportunities that the apprenticeship journey offers.
“I am delighted to win this special award.”
Employer Polar Ice Ltd, said of Ronan’s win: “We are thrilled to announce that Ronan Dunne of Polar Ice Ltd, was a category award winner at the ‘Apprentice of the Year’ Awards held recently in Dublin.
“Ronan was one of the Transport Operations & Commercial Driving Apprenticeship nominees put forward for an award.
“Ronan’s quick thinking and problem-solving abilities are a testament to his innate talent as an apprentice.
“His keen eye for identifying opportunities, combined with his swift decision-making skills, demonstrates his capacity to think critically and find innovative solutions in his work.
“We are exceptionally proud of all of his hard work and dedication in both his coursework as he progresses through Year 2 of his apprenticeship and as a Heavy Goods Vehicle driver for Polar Ice.”
Commenting on the ceremony, Dr Mary Liz Trant said: ”The NAO was delighted to present the national ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award for 2023 to Hazel Johnson and 14 exceptional finalists including Ronan Dunne, from a 26,000-strong Generation Apprenticeship community of dedicated apprentices.
“Apprentices are transforming the landscape of Ireland’s skilled workforce, bringing exceptional creativity and innovation, adaptability, leadership, fresh perspectives and a steadfast eagerness to learn that makes them valuable additions to any industry or workforce.”
Minister Simon Harris TD said: “Looking through the list of the 222 fantastic nominees, I can really see the talent we have in this country.
“Wishing warmest congratulations to each and every one of you. I want to thank each and every apprentice and employer for their unique role in supporting and developing our apprenticeship system.”
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