ANT Industries celebrates young engineer winning MTC award for outstanding performance

ANT Industries is celebrating the success of rising engineering talent, Hannah Naylor, an apprentice now recognised by the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) with its Extra Mile Award for outstanding performance. The award highlights Hannah’s exceptional dedication, technical development and contribution to the engineering projects she supports at ANT’s Atherstone facility.

For Managing Director Shaun Rowley, Hannah’s achievement is not only a personal milestone but a powerful symbol of ANT Industries’ commitment to building the next generation of engineering talent: “Her work ethic, technical curiosity and commitment to quality embody everything we stand for at ANT. Developing young engineers like Hannah is essential to securing the future of our industry.”

Hannah’s award comes in the same week the Government announced a major expansion in youth apprenticeships — promising 50,000 new apprenticeship places over the next three years in a national effort to tackle declining youth participation in technical careers. The initiative removes apprenticeship contributions for under-25s and expands opportunities in areas including engineering, automation and advanced manufacturing.

Shaun believes this renewed focus on skills aligns closely with the needs of the aerospace and precision-engineering supply chain: “The country is crying out for more skilled engineers, and companies like ours rely on a strong talent pipeline. The Government’s commitment to boosting apprenticeships is a welcome step, but it’s businesses on the ground who must nurture, train and inspire young people. Hannah is proof of what’s possible when that support is in place.”

ANT Industries has long championed early-career development through apprenticeships, graduate pathways and technical training partnerships. The company works closely with training bodies, including the MTC, to ensure young engineers gain the real-world experience and advanced machining knowledge required to thrive in aerospace and gas-turbine manufacturing.

Hannah’s journey reflects this philosophy. Joining ANT with a passion for hands-on engineering, she has rapidly progressed, contributing to continuous improvement projects, supporting machining processes, and demonstrating the resilience and initiative that earned her MTC recognition.

“Young engineers bring energy, new thinking and digital confidence into our business,” Shaun adds. “If UK manufacturing is to remain globally competitive, we must invest in them. Hannah’s award is not only a personal achievement — it’s a reminder of how vital it is to continue inspiring and supporting the next generation.”

A bright future for a rising engineer

Hannah says she’s honoured to receive the Extra Mile Award and grateful for the backing she has received throughout her development: “The support from ANT and the MTC has made a huge difference. I’ve been encouraged to challenge myself, learn new skills and contribute to meaningful projects. I’m excited for what comes next.”

As the national conversation turns to youth training, opportunity and industrial skills, ANT Industries continues to demonstrate that investment in young people is a strategic necessity – and a source of pride.