Edinburgh-based graduate apprentice Jessica Ross is studying Electronics Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, while Luton-based degree apprentices Mila Crook and Darla Pearce are studying Electronics Engineering at the University of Hertfordshire. All three are also STEM Ambassadors, inspiring a new generation of engineers by sharing their scientific knowledge and explaining why engineering skills can open up a new world of ideas. Additionally, Ishaan Haque, a former apprentice who is now a Senior Hardware Technician at Leonardo, received an award for his exceptional customer service.
Although she struggled with maths and didn’t complete any science subjects at school, Jessica says she was “a creative thinker, enjoying subjects such as Art, Music and English.” It is this avenue into engineering that Jessica is keen to promote.
“I believe engineering has a reputation as a ‘hard’ degree to complete, but I would like to become a champion of changing that impression, as now I understand that curiosity, creative problem-solving and communication skills are central to innovation in engineering.”
As a top hockey player who has been selected to represent Scotland in the international Hockey Nations Cup in Chile in February 2025, Jessica also aims to demonstrate how people can excel in multiple disciplines. “I want to show others that it’s possible to balance your goals within engineering and any external goals, by working hard and managing your time effectively.”
Mila’s BrightSparks award recognises how she has excelled in her current placement within applied research and antennas, completing a full design project in one year, through design, build and test stages – a rare achievement for someone at the start of their career. Mila has developed new test technology that is so effective that it may already be suitable for a patent application, if the design embodiment proves successful.
Darla Pearce was nominated for her BrightSparks award due to the remarkable speed with which she has absorbed the concepts and theories of antenna technology, as well as her leadership in STEM outreach, organising educational opportunities for students across Luton. As a direct result of Darla’s work, the antenna department has further investigated novel antenna technology, which has led to several test pieces being developed based on her designs.
“At school you get this sense that apprenticeships are somewhat put aside, in favour of more traditional degrees,” says Darla, who is following in her dad’s footsteps as an apprentice. “I’ve always been fascinated by engineering, so I’ve seen huge benefit from working hands-on in industry while studying at university, because you’re put right at the centre of programmes and you see how it all connects and is used live in industry.”
Both Mila and Darla plan to raise awareness of the value of apprenticeships to inspire and empower a new generation of engineers. “I’m keen to help other young people understand these benefits, whether they’re considering a technical apprenticeship or a degree apprenticeship. It’s about helping them understand they don’t need to choose between industry and education; then can have both,” adds Darla.
Ishaan’s work sees him travel around the globe, developing strong relationships with customers while helping them overcome technical challenges – dual strengths of technical and interpersonal abilities which are difficult to develop in tandem, but exceptionally valuable once mastered.
Upon winning a BrightSparks award, Ishaan said: “I think the knowledge you gain on the job in apprenticeships is invaluable. You’re working alongside experienced people who often find simpler ways of explaining everything to you, so it accelerates your learning.”
