Nottingham Apprentice Celebrates Distinction Success With National Award Nomination

A technician at Vertu Kia Nottingham who recently completed her apprenticeship with a full house of distinctions has even more reason to celebrate after being named a finalist in the Women in Motor Industry Awards 2026.

Katie Bowes has been shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year in recognition of her outstanding performance and commitment as she builds her career in the automotive industry.

The national recognition follows Katie successfully completing her Technician Apprenticeship with distinctions across the board and reflects the dedication, technical ability and enthusiasm she has demonstrated as part of the team at the dealership on Mansfield Road.

Modern vehicle technicians require an increasingly sophisticated range of skills as automotive technology develops, with apprentices learning to work across complex mechanical, electrical and digital vehicle systems.

Katie Bowes said: “Completing my apprenticeship with distinctions was a hugely proud moment, and to now be nominated for a national award makes it even more special.

“The support of the team at Vertu Kia Nottingham during my apprenticeship has been fantastic, and I have been able to learn a huge amount from the experienced colleagues around me.

“I’m excited to continue developing my skills as a technician, and to see where my career takes me.”

The winners of the 2026 Women in Motor Industry Awards will be revealed at an event in London in early December.

Robert Forrester, Chief Executive of Vertu, added: “Katie’s achievement in completing her Technician Apprenticeship with a full house of distinctions is outstanding and is something she should be extremely proud of. To then be shortlisted nationally for Apprentice of the Year makes this an even more exciting moment in her career.

“Developing the next generation of skilled technicians is incredibly important to Vertu and to the wider automotive industry. Katie is a great example of what can be achieved through an apprenticeship when talent is matched with hard work, enthusiasm and the right support.”