3 Firebrand’s shortlisted for Microsoft Apprentice of the Year

We are proud to announce that 3 Firebrands have been shortlisted for the Microsoft Apprentice of the Year awards.

Since the launch of Firebrand Apprenticeships in 2012, we have accelerated the careers of more than 100 young people. We are creating more opportunities than ever; since December 2013 we have more than trebled the number of committed apprentices. What’s more, it’s not the first time one of our apprentices has been nominated for the Microsoft Apprentice of the Year award.

Launched in 2010, these prestigious awards are a chance to recognise the achievements of those involved in Microsoft-backed apprenticeships. Nearly 5,000 young people have already completed or are on a Microsoft partner apprenticeship.  The most successful of which will attend the awards ceremony at the House of Commons on Monday 23^rd June.

In addition to recognising young talent, this is a great opportunity to celebrate the role of small to medium sized businesses that support the scheme. Not only can employers nominate their apprentices, apprentices are given have the opportunity to nominate exceptional employers.

The shortlisted Firebrands

Firebrand apprentice partner, Hitachi, have been shortlisted for the prestigious "Employer of the Year" award.  A fantastic organisation to work for, Hitachi have employed multiple apprentices through Firebrand, since our apprentice program launched in 2012. 

Pythagoras, a Microsoft Gold Partner, are shortlisted for two awards the "Employer of the Year" and "Apprentice of the Year" awards. Kimberley Bolton, discovered by Firebrand and employed by Pythagoras, is the outstanding apprentice up for the "Apprentices of the Year" award.  Kimberley was a newcomer to the industry when she began her Firebrand Apprenticeship via the Server & Database Associate program. During her time with Pythagoras she has prospered and currently provides fully fledged support for Microsoft Dynamics CRM within her organisation. 

If you are looking to accelerate your career in IT, check out our Apprenticeship website for more information on the programme and vacancies currently available.

Good luck to our three shortlisted apprentices!

By Sarah Morgan

About the Author:       
Sarah writes for Firebrand Training on a number of IT related topics. This includes exams, training, certification trends, project management, certification, careers advice and the industry itself. Sarah has 11 years of experience in the IT industry.