Southern Regional College (SRC) student Aoife Rooney (19) from Kilkeel has been named ‘Apprentice of the Year’ at the recent Made in Northern Ireland 2026 awards, held at the Titanic, Belfast on Wednesday 20th May 2026.
Aoife, who is in the first year of her Business Level 5 Higher National Diploma Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) at SRC’s Newry campus, was one of ten apprentices/higher level apprentices from across Northern Ireland shortlisted for the award. Included on the shortlist was fellow SRC Engineering Higher Level Apprentice student Holly McCafferty from Newry who works with MJM Marine as part of her HLA programme.
Aoife who is currently in the early stages of her career with employer Collins Aerospace impressed judges with her initiative, technical ability and professionalism. Judges highlighted her proactive approach to problem-solving, including her introduction of digital tools and QR code systems to enhance workplace processes and efficiency.
Through her apprenticeship, Aoife has gained valuable experience across manufacturing operations, developing a strong understanding of industry processes, quality requirements and the importance of accurate documentation.
On a day-to-day basis, Aoife plans out her day using JIRA, a project and issue tracking software which helps businesses to plan, assign, track and manage their work, and works through Jetstream, a manufacturing execution system to allows businesses to monitor, track and document the transformation of raw materials into finished goods. As Aoife explains, these systems have provided her with the “opportunity to learn more about manufacturing processes and how important accurate documentation is within the industry.”
On winning the award, Aoife commented;
“Winning Apprentice of the Year feels amazing and I’m incredibly grateful to have been chosen for the award. I was already delighted to be shortlisted and have the opportunity to attend the event, so winning the award means a lot to me. I’ve genuinely enjoyed every minute of my higher level apprenticeship so far and would recommend this path to anyone considering it. Receiving this award makes all the hard work feel worthwhile and means the world to me.”
The judging panel also commended Aoife for her leadership potential, determination and dedication to developing her skills within Northern Ireland’s engineering and manufacturing sector.
Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal & Chief Executive of Southern Regional College commented:
“Congratulations to Aoife on being recognised as Apprentice of the Year and to those recognised as finalists. Higher Level Apprenticeships are designed to develop talented individuals who can make an immediate impact in the workplace and build successful careers. Aoife’s success at these awards demonstrates the impact of Higher Level Apprenticeships in making meaningful contributions to business organisations.”