Laois company wins national Apprenticeship Employer Award

A Laois company has been announced as Apprentice Employer of the Year for 2025 in the national Generation Apprenticeship Awards.

Philip Doogue Mechanical services based in Cappanclough, Abbeyleix, won the award in the Micro-Business category. 

The motor business was awarded with a prestigious national ‘Employer of the Year’ award at a ceremony coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Office at Dublin’s Gibson Hotel on Thursday. 

The local Abbeyleix employer is celebrating after the company was recognised as a national Generation Apprenticeship employer champion and apprenticeship pioneer in the Micro Business category for dedication and commitment shown supporting the next generation of skilled apprentices in Ireland.

Philip Doogue Mechanical services was awarded one of just eight top accolades from 100 national nominations, beating out tough competition from a diverse range of outstanding apprenticeship employers from across the four corners of Ireland.

Commenting on their win, Philip Doogue said: “We are proud to accept the ‘Employer of the Year’ Award 2025 from The National Apprenticeship Office. This recognition reflects our dedication to creating opportunities for apprentices to learn, grow and succeed. Supporting and mentoring talent is at the heart of what we do at Philip Doogue Mechanical Services because we know apprenticeships help our community to build strong careers and strengthen skills in our local community.”

“This prestigious recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to developing talent, nurturing skills, and supporting career pathways for emerging talent whilst investing in the future of our industry – Heavy Vehicle Mechanics,” a company spokesperson said. 

The company is currently looking to take on Heavy Vehicle Mechanic apprentices and qualified mechanics.

“Our apprentices are at the heart of our growth and innovation. Their passion, fresh thinking, and dedication help us deliver the quality and service you value as our customer. This award is both an honour and a reminder of the importance of creating meaningful career pathways for the next generation.

For more than 15 years, Philip Doogue Mechanical Services has invested in apprenticeships as a core part of our workforce strategy. Through structured training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, we have equipped apprentices with industry-leading skills while strengthening our organisation with fresh perspectives and future leaders.” the spokesperson said. 

The company extended its gratitude to its exceptional staff and loyal customers and said their continued support enables the business to champion talent development and deliver high- quality service. 

“By choosing to work with us, you help make opportunities possible for young professionals building their futures. Thank you for being part of our journey. We’re excited to continue growing, improving, and serving you with the same commitment and excellence that earned this recognition,” the spokesperson said. 

Minister of State for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin presented the Award.

She  said: “The exceptional calibre of employers recognised in this year’s Employer of the Year Awards highlights the immense dedication and innovation present across our apprenticeship community. These awards honour individuals who embody the collaborative spirit between apprentices and employers I wish to congratulate each recipient and nominee on their remarkable achievements.”

Pictured above: Minister of State Mairan Harkin and Orla Dollard

Interim CEO at SOLAS, Nessa White said: “We are proud to champion employers who are playing a leading role in strengthening Ireland’s apprenticeship system. The Employer of the Year Awards recognise those who invest in the training and development of apprentices, foster innovation, inclusion and build pathways to rewarding careers. SOLAS is committed to empowering employers and apprentices alike, so that we can continue to build vibrant communities for the future of Irish industry.”

The apprenticeship route is growing in demand and popularity nationwide, with 10,000 employers investing in apprentices and apprenticeship training across 78 occupations, developing the talent needed to support business and industry needs and Ireland’s economy and society. 

Find more information about apprenticeships and the Generation Apprenticeship Champions in the Workplace Awards at www.apprenticeship.ie.