East Midland Railway (EMR) has named Joseph Hoy, who is a Senior Conductor from Loughborough, as its Apprentice of the Year after his great customer service impressed the judges.

Joseph has been employed by East Midland Railway for four years and started his career as a Customer Service Officer at Market Harborough. After completing his apprenticeship he is now a Senior Conductor at Nottingham and was presented with his prize as part of the company’s work to mark National Apprenticeship Week.

The judges were particularly impressed with his proactive attitude and great communication skills. One judge noted that “Joseph is always happy to help and always smiling. He is dedicated and does his best to support the team.

“He completes his role to a high standard, is very supportive of his colleagues and goes the extra mile to cover services and help customers.”

Joseph was delighted to win the award and said: “I’m in shock that I’ve won. I feel honoured and I’m really thankful to all the colleagues and managers who nominated me.”

“The apprenticeship scheme is a great qualification to have on your CV and it helps you gain experience within the railway.

“I wanted to add to the knowledge I’d already got through my first role in a station environment but continue working for EMR. I love my job because everyday is different, there’s lots of variety in my role and I know I can make a customers day, giving them the service they deserve when travelling with us.”

“If you are toying with the idea of becoming an apprentice, just do it. It’s a great course to get involved in, you learn new skills and there’s always lots of opportunities with the company that you can go on to after completing it. Definitely go for it!”

East Midland Railway has a wide range of apprenticeships available. They allow staff to earn a salary whilst gaining valuable qualifications and practical on-the-job training. The company welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to become apprentices, regardless of whether they come straight from school or further education, or are looking for a career change.

More information about East Midland Railway’s apprenticeship schemes is available on its website at https://www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/help-manage/about-us/job-vacancies/apprenticeships-info-for-apprentices

Currently, East Midland Railway is looking for a number apprentices, and details of the current vacancies are available here https://jobs.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/vacancies.aspx?cat=-1