13th February 2025
Dan Piaskowski, a fourth year Engineering Technician Apprentice at The Cornwall Bakery, has just won the Manufacturing Final Year Apprentice of the Year 2025 award at Plymouth’s prestigious Apprentice of the Year Awards.
Working at The Cornwall Bakery – which produces Ginsters pasties, slices, sausage rolls and pies – Dan specialises in mechatronics, which combines electronics with mechanical engineering. His role is focused on ensuring the smooth running of machinery in terms of safety, quality, delivery and cost. Day-to-day, this involves installing, testing, maintaining and fixing faults across a variety of electronic, mechanical and control systems.
Throughout his time as an apprentice, Dan has become a valued member of the team, and as a result, he was nominated for the award by his employers.
The awards – held in collaboration by the Plymouth Manufacturing Group and Building Cornwall – recognise talented apprentices working in the construction and manufacturing industry across Plymouth and the surrounding area. 45 apprentices were selected as finalists, and the winners were announced during the awards ceremony on Wednesday, 12 February 2025.
Heather Hughes, Learning & Development Advisor at The Cornwall Bakery, said: “We were delighted that Dan has been awarded the PMG Manufacturing Final Year Apprentice of the Year 2025. This is an extraordinary accomplishment, and a testament to Dan’s hard work, talent and commitment.”
Dan said: “I am deeply honoured and grateful to have won this award. This recognition is a testament to the journey I’ve undertaken, and I am truly humbled by this acknowledgment.”
Dan went on to explain how important support from his employer has been in helping him develop throughout his apprenticeship.
“I am really grateful for the team at The Cornwall Bakery and the unwavering support they’ve shown me; their belief in my potential has been instrumental in my growth. They’ve created an environment where apprentices like me can thrive. The opportunities I’ve been provided with have allowed me to hone my skills and showcase my talent.”
Dan loves his work, and is looking forward to continuing his career with the same dedication and enthusiasm he has put into his apprenticeship.
“I really resonate with the quote that says: ‘Choose a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life’, as it encapsulates the joy and fulfilment I’ve found in my work. It reminds me that when passions and your profession align, then work can give you both happiness and purpose. I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
Dan is studying the Level 3 Engineering Technician (Mechatronics Pathway), which is available at both the Plymouth Engineering Skills Centre and Cornwall College St Austell. Head to the course page to find out what it includes, and how to apply: https://www.cornwall.ac.uk/courses/engineering-technician-mechatronics-pathway-level-3/
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