Mid Ulster Apprentice Lab Lunch and Learn webinar

This webinar will provide valuable insights into apprenticeships from both education and industry perspectives

Mid Ulster Labour Market Partnership is hosting an Apprentice Lab Lunch and Learn webinar for local employers, sole traders, and SMEs to examine the realities of hiring an apprentice, from both industry and education perspectives. 

This event will offer inside knowledge, honest reflections, and actionable advice for businesses considering or currently delivering apprenticeships. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the opportunities, challenges, and supports available. 

Whether you’re sceptical, curious, or already considering your options, this is an opportunity to gain clarity and hear directly from others in similar positions. 

Speakers: 

• Dunbia Group - Katie Morton shares how expanding apprenticeships across multiple roles helped drive internal upskilling while attracting new talent into the business.
• Axon Power & Control - Alicia Quinn discusses how apprenticeships are supporting business growth, overcoming common barriers, and why they’re central to future expansion plans.
• McAleer & Rushe - Shane McCullagh explains how the company revisited Higher Level Apprenticeships after early challenges and successfully developed a model that now plays a key role in their workforce strategy. 

The discussion will be led by Noreen McGirr, Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) Manager at South West College, bringing practical insight into how apprenticeships work in reality. 

You’ll also hear from Catherine McHugh, Principal at St Patrick’s College Dungannon, who will share perspectives on the importance of considering apprenticeships as part of the wider skills and talent pipeline. 

Event details 

Date: Tuesday 19 May 2026 
Time: 12:30pm to 1:30pm 
Venue: Online 
Cost: Free 

The webinar will close with a Q&A session. 

Find out more and register for the Apprentice Lab Lunch and Learn webinar. 

For further information or queries, contact Colleen Bell at colleen.bell@midulstercouncil.org.  

First published 5 May 2026