Award-winning apprenticeship journey recognised with national metals industry honour

Agemaspark Workshop Manager Sam Buxton has been named winner of the Career Development category at the 2026 Metals Industry Apprentice of the Year Awards.

The awards, now in their 27th year, are organised by The Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers alias Wire Workers to recognise exceptional apprentices working within the UK metals industry. The Career Development Award celebrates outstanding personal development and commitment to career progression.

Sam received his award, certificate and £1,000 prize during the prestigious black-tie Court Dinner held at Grey’s Inn, London, on Tuesday 12 May.

Sam completed a Level 5 Operations or Departmental Manager apprenticeship while continuing to lead operational activity at Doncaster-based precision engineering specialist Agemaspark. During his apprenticeship, he played a key role in supporting the company’s successful Fit For Nuclear accreditation, strengthening quality management systems and introducing more structured performance and development processes across the business.

His award entry highlighted significant personal and professional development throughout the programme, including leadership growth, improved communication skills and the successful balance of full-time operational responsibilities alongside family commitments and academic achievement.

Speaking after receiving the award, Sam said:

“Winning this award is something I’m incredibly proud of. The apprenticeship challenged me in all the right ways and allowed me to develop not only my technical and operational knowledge, but also my confidence as a leader.

“Being recognised by such a respected organisation within the metals industry makes all the hard work worthwhile. I’m grateful to everyone at Agemaspark for their support throughout the apprenticeship, and I’m excited about continuing to develop my career within the business.”

Paul Stockhill, Managing Director of Agemaspark, said:

“Sam thoroughly deserves this recognition. He has demonstrated exceptional commitment to both his own development and the success of the business throughout his apprenticeship.

“He has become a hugely influential member of our operational leadership team, helping drive improvements in quality, culture and performance while supporting and developing colleagues around him.

“At Agemaspark, we strongly believe in investing in people and apprenticeships are a vital part of that. Sam’s achievement is a fantastic example of what can be accomplished through dedication, continuous learning and a willingness to take on new challenges.”

The Metals Industry Apprentice of the Year competition seeks to raise awareness of the important contribution apprentices make to both their companies and the wider metals sector. Previous winners have progressed into significant operational and leadership roles across the industry.

Agemaspark specialises in precision engineering solutions for customers operating across a diverse range of sectors. Founded in Doncaster in 2002, the company supports industries including aerospace for civil and military aircraft engines and power generation turbine engines, oil and gas, medical plastics, building products and food packaging. Agemaspark has also produced components used on the International Space Station and in Mars exploration projects. The business works closely with customers to solve complex engineering challenges and has invested in advanced 3D metal printing and conformal cooling technology, helping manufacturers of plastic caps and closures reduce cycle times by up to 20 per cent.