Agemaspark Workshop Manager Paul Preskey has been named Higher Apprentice of the Year at the 2026 South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards.
Paul received the award during the ceremony held at Sheffield United Football Club on Thursday, 21 May, recognising his outstanding professional development, leadership growth and contribution to the Doncaster-based precision engineering business.
The South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards celebrate the achievements of apprentices, employers and training providers across the region, highlighting individuals making a significant impact in their industries.
Paul completed his Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager apprenticeship through training provider Whyy? Change, achieving a Distinction alongside a CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership.
During his apprenticeship, Paul introduced operational KPIs to strengthen performance visibility, developed a Continuous Strategic Improvement Plan (CSIP) and implemented structured employee feedback processes to improve communication and engagement across the workshop.
He also played a central role in supporting Agemaspark’s successful Fit For Nuclear (F4N) accreditation, helping position the company for future growth opportunities within the nuclear sector.
Paul leads a team of 12 across milling, turning, EDM, grinding and 3D metal printing operations and has been recognised for combining strong technical expertise with strategic leadership and people development.
Speaking after receiving the award, Paul said:
“Winning this award is a huge honour and something I’m extremely proud of. The apprenticeship has allowed me to develop not just as a manager, but as a leader, helping me understand how to drive improvement, support people and contribute more strategically to the business.
“Engineering has always been a hands-on industry, but this experience has shown me the importance of communication, leadership and continuous development alongside technical skills. I’m grateful to Agemaspark for the support and trust they’ve placed in me throughout the apprenticeship journey.”
Paul Stockhill, Managing Director of Agemaspark, said:
“Paul’s achievement is thoroughly deserved and reflects the commitment, professionalism and leadership qualities he demonstrates every day.
“He has played a significant role in strengthening operational performance and developing a more engaged, accountable and forward-thinking culture within the business. His progression from apprentice to senior operational leader is something we are incredibly proud of.
“Apprenticeships remain hugely important to the future of engineering and manufacturing, and Paul is an excellent example of the long-term value they create for both individuals and businesses.”
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.