Courses
National recognition for ATU apprentices at 2025 Apprentice of the Year Awards
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) is celebrating the success of two of its apprentices who were named Apprentice of the Year in their respective categories at the National Apprentice of the Year Awards 2025, held at the Mansion House, Dublin, on 21 October.
Out of more than 300 nominees nationwide and 12 category winners on the night, ATU apprentices Gavin Monaghan and Emma McCann stood out for their exceptional skills, dedication, and performance in their fields.
Gavin Monaghan, a second-year apprentice on the BA (Hons) in Insurance Practice (Life) programme at ATU’s Sligo Campus, received the Insurance and Recruitment Apprentice of the Year award. Gavin is employed by Walfrid Private, Co. Dublin.
Emma McCann, who completed Phase 4 of the Electrical Apprenticeship at ATU’s Killybegs Campus last year, was named Electrical Apprentice of the Year. Emma is employed by Microsoft Ireland Operations Limited, Dublin.
Congratulating the winners, Dr Marie Moran, Head of Department of Business at ATU, commented on Gavin’s success:
We are incredibly proud of Emma’s and Gavin’s achievements. Their awards are a testament to their hard work and to the quality of apprenticeship provision available across ATU campuses. Gavin, who was one of several Insurance Practice nominees from a variety of employers, has shown exceptional dedication, passion, and promise in his insurance career. The programme, now in its tenth year, continues to shape the future of the profession by building on the strong partnership between ATU and our professional body partners, LIA and III.
Mark Grumley, Head of Department of Engineering Apprenticeship at ATU, praised Emma’s achievement:
“Emma’s award is a fantastic recognition of her talent, drive and technical expertise. Having completed her apprenticeship training at ATU’s Killybegs Campus, she has shown outstanding commitment and enthusiasm for her trade. Emma is an excellent ambassador for ATU and for women in the electrical industry, and we wish her continued success in her career with Microsoft.”
Photo caption: Minister Harkin presents Emma McCann with an Apprentice of the Year 2025 Award in the Electrical Category
Ivana Hanjs
Communications Officer
Tel: +353 89 963 9559
