GGR Group is proud to congratulate Simone Loonam, Engineering Apprentice, on winning the STEM Learner of the Year Award at the Partnerships in Excellence Apprenticeship & Skills Awards from Trafford & Stockport College Group.

This fantastic achievement recognises Simone’s exceptional commitment, resilience and professionalism throughout her engineering apprenticeship. Despite facing challenges, Simone has continued to adapt with determination, progress confidently and take full ownership of her development.

As part of GGR Group’s robotics department, Simone has continued to develop her technical skills across specialist machinery, glazing robot servicing, product testing, CAD design and hands-on engineering work.

Recognising the Next Generation of Engineering Talent

Apprenticeships play an important role in developing skilled engineers for the future of the lifting, construction and plant hire industries. At GGR Group, apprentices gain practical, real-world experience from day one, working alongside experienced engineers and contributing to live projects across the business.

Simone’s award is a clear example of what can be achieved through this approach. Her passion for learning, adaptability and achievements beyond the apprenticeship programme make her a truly deserving winner.

Since joining GGR Group, Simone has shown a strong interest in engineering innovation, particularly within robotics, where she now specialises in the maintenance, servicing and testing of GGR Group’s glazing robots.

These machines form a key part of GGR Group’s specialist lifting fleet, helping customers complete complex glass installation projects safely, efficiently and with precision.

Simone’s Journey at GGR Group

Simone’s passion for engineering started early. In GGR Group’s National Apprenticeship Week blog, she shared that engineering was always a career path she wanted to follow, with robotics being an area that interested her from a young age.

She also highlighted how an apprenticeship gave her the opportunity to combine formal education with hands-on learning and practical application.

Her day-to-day role at GGR Group reflects the variety and technical depth of the lifting industry. Simone has been involved in servicing and testing glazing robots, completing CAD drawings for ongoing projects, product testing and supporting repairs and servicing on site.

This wide-ranging experience has helped Simone build confidence, develop practical skills and contribute directly to the work of GGR Group’s engineering team.

Specialising in Robotics and Innovation

Working in the robotics department, Simone plays a part in maintaining equipment that supports some of the most demanding lifting and glazing projects in the industry.

GGR Group’s glazing robots are designed to assist with the safe handling and installation of glass and other materials, making technical knowledge, attention to detail and problem-solving essential.

Simone has also spoken previously about her interest in CAD and 3D printing, explaining how prototyping small parts and components has allowed her to become more hands-on in project work and showcase her engineering skills.

Her progress reflects GGR Group’s wider commitment to innovation, specialist equipment and the development of future engineering talent.

A Proud Moment for GGR Group

Winning the STEM Learner of the Year Award is a well-deserved milestone and a reflection of Simone’s hard work, enthusiasm and determination to build a career in engineering.

This latest recognition follows another proud achievement for Simone, after she was highly commended for Plant Mechanic of the Year at the CPA Stars of the Future Awards in 2025. Her continued success demonstrates her dedication to learning, her proactive approach and the valuable contribution she is making within the business.

Everyone at GGR Group would like to congratulate Simone on this outstanding achievement. We are proud to support her development and look forward to seeing her continue to progress within the robotics department and the wider engineering team.

Supporting Apprenticeships in the Lifting Industry

GGR Group remains committed to investing in apprenticeships and developing skilled professionals for the future of the lifting industry.

By combining technical training with hands-on experience, our apprenticeship programmes help create confident, capable engineers who are ready to support customers across construction, glazing, infrastructure and specialist lifting projects.

Congratulations again to Simone on winning STEM Learner of the Year—an excellent achievement and a proud moment for the whole GGR Group team.