Next generation of rail engineering talent recognised by EMR

East Midlands Railway (EMR), which is operated by Transport UK, has named 19-year-old Fleet Apprentice Matt Hardy as its Apprentice of the Year, recognising his outstanding contribution at Etches Park Depot in Derby. 

Matt, who is currently in the second year of his apprenticeship, was presented with the award after being nominated by colleagues who praised his commitment, teamwork and enthusiasm for engineering.

Speaking about the moment he found out he had won, Matt said: "Honestly, I was shocked. I didn’t even know I had been nominated. It really shows how much the team at Etches Park care, and that means a lot to me.”

Since joining EMR, Matt has become a valued member of the depot team, working alongside experienced colleagues to help keep trains safe, reliable and ready for service.

He said: "The teamwork with everyone I have worked with at the depot has been the best part. I’ve loved learning about fixing trains and then seeing them back out in service, knowing I’ve been part of the team that made that happen.

"Working alongside experienced people and learning from them every day has been brilliant. The teamwork is definitely my favourite part.”

Matt was nominated by a number of his colleagues, including Jacob Lane, Fleet Operations Competency Specialist.

Jacob said: "Matt considers whole system thinking rather than purely engineering – he is eager to explore other areas of the business and relate decisions he makes in production to how they affect the business as a whole, as well as the customer experience.

"He can be relied upon to deliver whatever he sets out to achieve. He is a model apprentice and employee who demonstrates EMR core values every day."

Alexandra Hooper, Apprenticeship Lead at East Midlands Railway, said: "I’m incredibly proud of Matt for achieving this award. He has worked exceptionally hard and has truly excelled in his role, which is clearly reflected in his nominations and this fantastic achievement.

"Apprenticeships play a vital role at EMR and are central to both our current success and the future of our railway. They give colleagues the opportunity to build valuable skills that support them in their roles while strengthening our business as a whole. Just as importantly, they help us broaden diversity across our workforce, support social mobility, and provide a strong stepping stone for both personal and professional development."

Apply to be an apprentice today

East Midlands Railway is proud to support apprenticeship programmes that enable employees to grow, develop, and make a meaningful impact on the industry.

If you are considering an apprenticeship in rail, visit our website to learn more and apply today: www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk