An assistant training manager from Tarmac has been named Intec Business Colleges' Apprentice of the Year for 2024.
Kirin Fisher was nominated for the national award by her tutor at Intec Business Colleges.
Fisher was already working in Tarmac’s Learning and Development team as a training coordinator when she enrolled in Intec’s Learning and Development Practitioner Level 3 programme to support her transition from coordinator to managerial role. The role represented a step up for Kirin, who went from predominantly administrative-based work to actively delivering training, including leadership development training for frontline managers.
The apprenticeship has helped Kirin to develop her skills and confidence to transition into this more challenging and influential role. She started the programme in line with her promotion, working incredibly hard to juggle her new role and completing an apprenticeship programme.
Fisher said: “I was delighted when I found out I was nominated, but to then be told that I had won felt amazing! I’ve really enjoyed the Level 3 Learning and Development Practitioner course. It’s been a lot of hard work, and for this to be recognised with this award makes it feel very special.”
Louise Gammage, Fisher’s tutor at Intec Business Colleges, who nominated her for this award, added: “Kirin is an inspiring example of how apprenticeships can empower individuals to reach their potential. Her journey highlights the benefits of apprenticeships for both the apprentice and the employer, showcasing the transformational impact of vocational learning and a supportive work environment. Kirin’s success supported her in the next step in her career and served as a model for effective talent development within her organisation.”
Fisher’s team is also delighted that this award has recognised her.
Ben Trisic, training manager for Cement & Lime, Packed Products, and Building Products, said: “It’s been a privilege to see how Kirin has developed and increased her skills and experience through completing her Learning and Development Practitioner programme. She has shown just how impactful apprenticeships can be, not just for the individual but also for the business.
“Kirin joined the Learning and Development team in 2019 as a training coordinator and was keen to learn and understand more about the Learning and Development function. Kirin’s development through this programme has seen her recently take on the role of training manager, where she is using her skills and experiences to help others in our business realise their potential.
“In all my working career, I don’t recall anyone developing so much in such a short space of time. Kirin’s confidence has sky-rocketed, and she’s now responsible for training and development in two regions of our business, having conversations with senior leaders to support the creation of a positive learning culture.”
