Apprentice winner Joseph urging others to get on track
A friendly and dedicated senior conductor from Loughborough has been crowned East Midland Railway’s (EMR) apprentice of the year after he impressed judges with his customer service.
Joseph Hoy, who has been working for EMR for four years, was presented with the prize as part of the company’s work to mark National Apprenticeship Week.
Judges were particularly impressed with Joseph’s proactive attitude and his great communications skills - with one noting: “Joseph is always happy to help and always smiling. He is dedicated and does his best to support the team.
“He completes his role to a high standard, is very supportive of his colleagues and goes the extra mile to cover services and help customers.”
Joseph started his career at EMR as a customer service officer at Market Harborough and is now currently a senior conductor at Nottingham after completing his apprenticeship.
He said he was delighted to win the award. He said: “I’m in shock that I’ve won.
“I feel honoured and I’m really thankful to all the colleagues and managers who nominated me.”
Joseph was motivated to join the apprenticeship scheme so he could develop his skills.
He said: “The apprenticeship scheme is a great qualification to have on your CV and it helps you gain experience within the railway.
“I wanted to add to the knowledge I’d already got through my first role in a station environment but continue working for EMR. I love my job because every day is different, there’s lots of variety in my role and I know I can make a customer’s day, giving them the service they deserve when travelling with us.”
EMR offers a wide range of apprenticeships that allow staff to gain valuable qualifications and practical on the job training whilst earning a salary.
People of all ages and backgrounds join EMR as apprentices, whether coming straight from school, further education or for a career change.
Joseph urged anyone who was considering doing an apprenticeship with EMR to apply and seize the opportunity.
He said: “If you are toying with the idea of becoming an apprentice, just do it. It’s a great course to get involved in, you learn new skills and there’s always lots of opportunities with the company that you can go on to after completing it. Definitely go for it!”
More information about EMR’S apprenticeship schemes can be found on its website here: https://www. eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/helpmanage/ apprenticeships-info-for-apprentices