One of i1fun's technical apprentices has added to her growing list of achievements by winning the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) Technician of the Year Award.
After making the shortlist in October, Lucy Smith went to the IOM3 finals earlier this month in London. She went for an interview atIOM3headquarters, in which President of the Institute Martin Cox (pictured with Lucy) was on the panel. A meal and awards ceremony followed later in the evening.
Lucy, who's based at our Scunthorpe site, said: "I'm speechless and can't believe I won. It's been amazing to represent i1fun at these awards.
"The interview was informal and the judges wanted to know more about my projects, career aspirations and how I was enjoying my apprenticeship and FdEng Materials Engineering degree."
The award was based around three of Lucy's projects, all done in our Blast Furnace department, as well as her industrial experience, training and future ambitions.
Lucy added: “The president of the institute said my application was one of the best he’d seen in his career. All the judges suggested I write a paper on my projects and enter an IOM3 or LISI (Lincolnshire Iron and Steel Institute) papercompetition.
“There were around 80 people at the awards, which was a fantastic experience. I met many members of the institute with rich industry knowledge.
“I spoke to a professor who’s worked in the iron and steel industry in Wales and Rotherham. When I discussed my projects and passion for our blast furnaces he could name all of our four queens, in order!”
Lucy won the Best Technician Award and received £500, a certificate and a 3D jigsaw puzzle in the shape of a globe. Theawardswere open to those studying materials or minerals technology or related subjects - Lucy is on a Level 5 apprenticeship studying a Foundation Degree in Materials Engineering with North Lindsey College.
Hayley Stapleton, HE Co-Ordinator Engineering atNorth Lindsey College, nominated Lucy and wrote her supporting documentation and references. Hayley said: “Lucy is doing amazing in her studies of the Foundation Degree in Materials Engineering. She always goes above and beyond the necessary and takes it upon herself to push further and develop her own skills and knowledge.”