We are delighted to introduce Abbott Diabetes Care  as sponsor of the Oxfordshire Apprenticeship Awards 2021 Intermediate Apprentice of the Year Award. Abbott Diabetes Care develop healthcare solutions, from next-generation diagnostic tools that put patients on the path to better health sooner to trusted medicines that help people of all ages stay active and vital.

Site Director Shaun Smith explains why the company is supporting the Oxfordshire Apprenticeship Awards 2021.

Tell us why you’re supporting the Oxfordshire Apprenticeship Awards and why you have chosen to sponsor your particular category 

We are committed to supporting the next generation of Engineers and Technicians. We have our own longstanding and successful Apprenticeship scheme, so this award fits nicely with our ethos.

What are you looking for in the winner of your category?

I am looking for individuals that have embraced the opportunity to mixing learning and work experience to deepen their knowledge and understanding. Someone that has demonstrated the ability to take their learning and apply it in the workplace. Enthusiasm and a commitment to make the best of their skills.

What would you say to anyone thinking about entering or nominating?  

Whenever you enter anything, think about what you offer that maybe no-one else does. That way, win or lose you know you have searched deep in exploring what you offer and where you add potential value. You have given yourself your best shot at winning.

If you don’t win, you have enhanced your learning by networking with those in your field.

Tell us about your organisation’s experience of Apprenticeships          

We have employed Apprentices at ADC for over 20 years, most of the people that did Apprenticeships with us still work here. I have mentored and supported them in many ways during their time in the business. Our Apprentices help move our business forward. I continue to advocate them in our business and am actively looking at how we can expand our scheme to take more.

Join the conversation

Join us for Oxfordshire Apprenticeships Hour (#OAHour) on Twitter @OxonApprentice from 1pm every Thursday for latest on the Awards and join in the conversation using the hashtag #OAAwards2021.