At our 10th annual Ice Gala, we proudly announced Gavin Ainsworth, a third-year CAD Technical Designer Apprentice at SMS Group, as Apprentice of the Year winner. Gavin’s dedication to learning and continuous improvement has been exceptional. His ability to adapt designs, create layouts, and support manufacturing drawings has expanded the company’s offerings. Recognized as an exemplary apprentice, he has demonstrated technical growth, professionalism, and a strong commitment to his role.
This year, we received a record-breaking 11 nominations, reflecting the high regard employers have for the program and their apprentices.
Congratulations to all nominees, and especially to Gavin for this well-earned recognition.
A huge thank-you to our judges this year:
- Johannes Scheiffarth - Plant Manager at Herkules USA Corp.
- Cristie DeWitt - Workforce Development Supervisor at Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry
- David Brunger Technicial Instructor at Riverside High School
- Julia Jaeger - Project Manager at Innovation Economic Development Agency Dortmund
- Janet Ward - Executive Director at Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Development Board
- Marshall Palmer - Apprenticeship & Training Representatives at Apprenticeship & Training Office
- Michael Leddy - Assistant Principal at Parkway West CTC
