Congratulations to award-winning apprentice and budding rugby star Alistair

We're incredibly proud that one of our talented apprentices has received a prestigious award, recognising his hard work, dedication and achievements.

Apprentice Maintenance Technician Alistair Swyer’s success also highlights the strength of our apprenticeship programme and our commitment to developing the next generation of manufacturing and engineering talent.

Alistair has been named Manufacturer Apprentice of the Year: Final Year for the North East, Yorkshire and the Humber region in the Make UK Manufacturing Awards 2026.

The award is a fantastic recognition of the commitment Alistair has shown throughout his apprenticeship so far, while also striving to forge a career in professional rugby.

Building an engineering career while chasing rugby ambitions

Alistair joined Ideal Heating in 2023, embarking on a five-year apprenticeship to develop his skills and build a career in engineering.

But that's not all he has on his plate. Alongside his work and studies, Alistair continues to pursue his rugby league ambitions with Super League club Hull FC, where he has been part of the club for five years. He currently plays as hooker for the reserves team, fitting training and playing commitments around his apprenticeship.

It's no easy balancing act, but Alistair's determination and positive attitude have helped him make the most of both opportunities.

Recognising dedication and determination

We put Alistair forward for the award earlier this year, recognising his dedication to learning, his contribution to our business and the progress he has made during his apprenticeship.

The Make UK Manufacturing Awards celebrate the people and businesses helping to shape the future of UK manufacturing, recognising the talent, innovation and commitment driving our industry forward.

Reflecting on the moment he was announced as a winner, Alistair said: "I was really shocked because, when I was looking around the room, there were some massive businesses and it was really surreal.

"It was a really proud moment to receive that kind of recognition and to see the past three years of hard work all pay off. It's not every day you can say you have won this kind of award."

The judges praised Alistair’s ability to balance his commitments, highlighting his passion, collaborative approach and positive attitude.

The judges said: “This candidate humbly balances huge academic, professional and extra-curricular activities while delivering to the best of their abilities as an apprentice.

“They are deeply passionate about their work, driven, collaborative and demonstrate a positive, can-do attitude.”

A tribute to our young talent

We're passionate about developing the next generation of engineering and manufacturing talent, and seeing colleagues like Alistair thrive is exactly what makes our apprenticeship programme so rewarding.

Our HR Director, Miriam Moore, said: “Alistair has demonstrated a real commitment to developing his skills, making a valuable contribution to the business and making the most of every opportunity presented to him.

"We're incredibly proud to see his efforts recognised and look forward to seeing what he goes on to achieve in the future.”

Alistair wasn't the only Ideal Heating apprentice receiving recognition at this year's awards. Our Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Trainee, Oliver Hinton, was also shortlisted for the Manufacturer Apprentice of the Year: Rising Star award.

Having two of our apprentices recognised at a regional level is a fantastic achievement and reflects the strength of the talent we're developing here at Ideal Heating.

What's next for Alistair?

Winning the regional award is just the beginning for Alistair, who will now progress to the national Make UK Manufacturing Awards ceremony in London in the new year.

With ambitions to continue building his engineering career at Ideal Heating while pursuing his rugby goals, we're excited to see what the future holds for him.

Congratulations again, Alistair! From all of us at Ideal Heating, we're incredibly proud of everything you've achieved so far and can't wait to see what's next.