Joe Jackson has received the 2026 York College Merchant Adventurers’ Apprenticeship Award, recognising his achievements at engineering firm C-Kore Systems and during his Level 3 Engineering Fitter course. His success has led to him mentoring new apprentices at the company, which designs tools for the offshore oil, gas and energy industries.
The award, which includes £500, was presented at the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall in York. Joe was one of eight apprentices shortlisted for the award, attending the ceremony with C-Kore Operations Director Greg Smith, Office Manager Elaine Hukins, and Production Manager James Selway.
“"Joe has come from a background of no prior experience to become a trusted and well-rounded technician. He has refined his knowledge and skills in terms of mechanical assembly processes and techniques, electrical testing and working on new prototype products. His quality of work has met our required high standards, ensuring that our tools arrive with the customer in excellent condition and offer high reliability following stringent testing. He also looks to improve processes and C-Kore has been so impressed with the progress he has made throughout his apprenticeship that we have taken on further apprentices this summer with Joe now acting as a mentor."
Joe's work contributed to a UK Government King’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation for C-Kore Systems. He has also conducted baselining processes in Norway and electrical testing for a new customer in Paris. He is currently preparing for his End-Point Assessment (EPA) and believes the apprenticeship has provided a strong balance of theoretical and practical learning.
Initially pursuing a Public Services course, Joe transitioned to retail before seeking the challenge of an apprenticeship. He aims to expand his knowledge of C-Kore's products and pursue further qualifications, including a Level 4 HNC in Engineering, which the company supports.
The Company of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York, established in 1357, has a long history of supporting apprentices. The award is part of their effort to reinvigorate the connection between the ancient guild, employers, and apprentices. Professor Sarah Brown, Governor of The Company of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York, presented the certificates.
