| Project Management Apprentice of the Year

This category aims to recognise excellence in a higher or degree apprentice undertaking a Project Management standard, or within the area of project management (where modules can demonstrate significant project management), within the UK.

The category is open to those currently on a higher (level 4 or 5) or degree apprenticeship (level 6 or 7) programme as well as those who have completed their programme in 2025. Entrants can either self-nominate or be nominated by their employer but may only enter this category once. Entrants can be members or non-members of APM.

Entries can take the form of a 1,000-word statement OR 8-minute video (in English) addressing the criteria below in addition, entrants may also submit up to two pieces of supporting evidence.

• images and/or graphics (no text, just short captions)
• a link to a video no more than 2 minutes in length

Evidence must support information already included in the submission and must not introduce additional elements. Please see further details on the ‘Supporting evidence’ tab of the Awards platform.

View the winner 

Congratulations to our winner

Judges comments
Gemma stood out to the judges as an apprentice who is already delivering impact at Project Manager level, stepping up during a difficult capacity gap, clearly demonstrating she is on a strong trajectory. Just as impressive is Gemma’s commitment to her development, with First Class Honours and a Distinction in her apprenticeship and a suite of professional qualifications that she is already applying in practice. Add to that the way she goes above and beyond—mentoring apprentices, supporting school careers events, and leading with a calm, capable presence. 

Gemma has consistently embodied the values of care, courage, pride, and curiosity through her role within the Nectar project. She has become a trusted and dependable leader, and a role model for apprentices across the organisation.

Her journey is a testament to what apprentices can achieve when given the opportunity – and she is truly deserving of the title Project Management Apprentice of the Year.

During my apprenticeship, I built a strong foundation in project management through structured learning, practical application, and reflective development across diverse projects.

Despite having a more theoretical background, the apprenticeship enabled me to translate theory into practice, applying recognised techniques across programmes spanning airspace modernisation, technological transformation and the sustainment of critical national infrastructure.

Through four rotations, I gained experience of varied methodologies, lifecycle phases, and stakeholder groups, seeking feedback to drive growth.

Demonstrating adaptability and resilience, I successfully led workstreams, managed suppliers, and supported agile initiatives. I engaged with the APM community, strengthening professional networks and wider sector knowledge.

I joined NATS in 2023 on the Project Management Graduate Scheme. NATS is the UK's leading air traffic control provider, ensuring safe and efficient airspace management for millions of passengers worldwide.

Completing the APM Project Management Qualification strengthen my technical expertise while providing valuable on the job experience through four diverse rotations, each offering unique insights into best practice from Senior Project Managers.

Having completed both my apprenticeship and graduate scheme, I have progressed into my current role as Associate Project Manager.  I remain committed to professional development and advancing within the project management profession. 

2025 has been a standout year in terms of delivering not only in my placement work on a massive transfer of technology project with a European defence partner, with significant strategic value, however also in terms of broadening my depth and breadth of academic knowledge.

I have delivered projects above the standard requirements in terms of competing in the APM PM Challenge, delivering tangible social benefits through the power of projects. Finally, my personal behavioural development, critical to success, has been homed in on and pushed on an exponential path.