Smital Dhake of Alstom has been awarded Apprentice or Newcomer of the Year at the 2023 RailStaff Awards.
Since joining the rail industry in July 2022, Smital has made an enormous impact, quickly establishing collaborative relationships, achieving IRSE competence, and delivering safety-related works in record time.
She has helped to develop team members and create a more inclusive working environment. Smital has been an inspiration to her team since, thanks to her positive attitude, firm grasp of the technical aspects of design, and her willingness to take on challenging tasks.
As well as impressing her colleagues, Smital is an enormous inspiration to young women thinking of pursuing a career in engineering or STEM. She uses her own time to visit schools, promoting careers in engineering and sustainability.
“This award means so much to me,” she said. “It will inspire me to keep up the hard work, and I hope it also inspires others who are new to the industry. I’m truly grateful for everyone who has helped me through my journey. I’ve had wonderful mentors, colleagues, and managers. I’m truly honoured.”
The Apprentice or Newcomer of the Year award was sponsored by City & Guilds Training. City & Guilds is the UK’s leader in skills development and apprenticeship schemes. As a registered charity and Royal Charter Institute, City & Guilds has worked for over 145 years with people, organisations, and economies to help them identify and develop the skills they need to thrive. Andy Moss, chief customer officer at City & Guilds, presented the Award.
“This award embodies the work we do at City & Guilds,” said Andy. “Apprenticeships offer an amazing pathway for learners from all walks of life to gain the skills and knowledge needed to build great careers in the rail sector. Huge congratulations to everyone recognised in this year’s awards!”
Highly commended
Lucy Robinson, Faithful+Gould
Kalen Ruddock, Alstom
