LCRIG has announced that entries are now open for the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards 2026. Now in their second year, these prestigious awards shine a spotlight on the exceptional talent, dedication, and ambition of apprentices within the highways and road infrastructure technology sector. They celebrate young professionals who are making outstanding contributions early in their careers and driving innovation, growth, and excellence in our sector.
Sponsored by WJ Group, the awards form part of the Innovation and Learning Festival, taking place from 24-25 June 2026 at the NAEC Stoneleigh. The awards presentation will form part of the evening networking event held on 24 June – a relaxed and informal celebration showcasing the future of our sector.
Award Categories:
DfT Special Recognition Inspirational Apprentice Award
Recognising apprentices who go above and beyond to motivate and inspire others, acting as role models for their peers and ambassadors for the industry. These individuals not only excel in their roles but also make a positive and lasting impact on colleagues, the wider sector, and their communities.
DfT Special Recognition Exceptional Frontline Apprentice Award
Celebrating apprentices in frontline roles who demonstrate exceptional skills, innovation, reliability, and a commitment to making a tangible difference in their teams, workplaces, and communities.
DfT Special Recognition Outstanding Achievement Award
Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4-6 Apprenticeship Awards
Honouring apprentices at each level who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, personal growth, and professional excellence, contributing positively to both their workplace and the wider community.
New for 2026 – Employer Recognition
Excellence in Apprenticeship Delivery – Employer Award
This new award celebrates employers who champion apprenticeship delivery, providing high-quality programmes that empower apprentices, support workforce development, and promote inclusion and opportunity. It recognises organisations setting the benchmark for skills development across the highways and road infrastructure technology sector.
Apprentice Competition
Future of Local Roads: Apprentice Innovation Competition
We’re inviting apprentices to propose innovative solutions to real-world highways or transportation-related challenges in their local area – whether improving safety, efficiency, accessibility, or sustainability on our local networks.
The winner will showcase their ideas to industry leaders, receiving recognition, promotion through LCRIG platforms, and a £1,000 cash prize.
Hear from a 2025 Winner
Leanna Dinnegan, Islington Council, 2025 Inspiring the Future Competition Winner, said:
“Winning the competition felt incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about recognition, it felt like a moment that validated the importance of investing in young people and promoting careers in highways and transport. As someone who started their journey as an apprentice, I know first-hand how impactful early outreach and support can be. To now be recognised for trying to offer that same support to the next generation is a full-circle moment I’m so proud of.”
Visit the LCRIG Awards page to view the criteria and guidance on how to enter.
The DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards are open to all, with nominations welcomed from employers, training providers, or directly from apprentices themselves.
Please note, shortlisted entrants will be required to be represented at the awards ceremony.
Public sector and private sector individual delegate places and tables at the awards evening are available, with fully funded places for apprentices. Book here.
Key Dates
- Entry Deadline: 5pm, Friday 27 March 2026
- Shortlist Announcement: April 2026
- Awards Ceremony: 24 June 2026
Sponsorship Opportunities
Interested in supporting and celebrating the future of our sector? Award sponsorship opportunities are available. Click here to find out more and book.
