Supporting international events including Formula 1, ATP Tennis tournaments, and EURO competitions while completing an apprenticeship might sound daunting to most people, but for Chloe Auger, it became the foundation for award-winning success.
In 2025, Chloe was named Apprentice of the Year at the Kaplan Apprenticeship Awards, recognising not only her technical ability, but the impact she made as the first apprentice at boutique IT consultancy C.I.KNOW.
Now working full time at the company after completing her Level 3 Network and Support Apprenticeship with Kaplan, Chloe is encouraging employers and apprentices to put forward nominations for the 2026 Kaplan Apprenticeship Awards.
From first apprentice to award winner
At the time of her nomination, Chloe was working as an IT Apprentice at C.I.KNOW, supporting the International Events Division of a Gourmet Entertainment Company at large-scale international events around the world.
Alongside the demands of a fast-paced technical role, she was also balancing the challenges of studying for her apprenticeship qualification.
Winning Apprentice of the Year at the Kaplan Apprenticeship Awards was a moment that validated just how much she had achieved.
“Winning the award was incredibly meaningful to me because it recognised not only the work I’ve put in technically, but also the effort I’ve made to continuously learn, improve and contribute positively to my team.”
As the company’s first apprentice, Chloe also felt a responsibility to demonstrate the value apprenticeships can bring to a business.
“Having my work recognised by both my peers and the wider industry gave me a huge confidence boost and reinforced that the effort, problem-solving and commitment to continuous improvement were making a real impact.”
A boost in confidence - and opportunity
Since winning the award, Chloe’s role has continued to evolve. She’s become more involved in automation initiatives, AI product development and process improvement projects, while also supporting newer apprentices entering the business.
The recognition has also helped strengthen her confidence when tackling complex technical challenges and presenting ideas to colleagues.
“Working in technology often involves solving unfamiliar or complex problems, and the award reinforced that I’m capable of handling those challenges and contributing meaningful solutions.”
For Chloe, one of the biggest benefits of participating in the apprenticeship awards was the opportunity to meet other apprentices and professionals from across different industries.
“One of the most valuable aspects of the awards was meeting other apprentices and hearing about their experiences, challenges and achievements.”
The experience also opened doors to new conversations around automation, AI and digital transformation - areas Chloe is particularly passionate about developing further as her career progresses.
Why nominations matter
Chloe’s manager and wider team at C.I.KNOW were equally proud when she was announced as the winner.
“Everyone at C.I.KNOW has invested a lot of time into helping me develop, so it felt like a shared achievement as much as an individual one.”
For employers, the apprenticeship awards are a chance to celebrate the impact apprentices are having across their organisation and recognise the value of the support networks helping them succeed.
The awards also recognise the managers, mentors and teams helping apprentices thrive and develop their careers.
For apprentices, they’re an opportunity to reflect on achievements that can often be overlooked in day-to-day work.
And according to Chloe, that’s exactly why people shouldn’t hesitate to nominate themselves or others.
Chloe’s top tips for a strong nomination
With nominations for the 2026 Kaplan Apprenticeship Awards now open, Chloe shared her advice for apprentices and managers preparing submissions.
Focus on impact
Rather than listing day-to-day responsibilities, Chloe recommends highlighting real examples of how the apprentice has made a difference.
“It’s important to clearly demonstrate how the apprentice has added value to the organisation, solved problems or improved processes.”
Don’t underestimate your achievements
Chloe admits one of the biggest challenges can be recognising your own success.
“I tend to downplay my achievements and think of them as business as usual, so having someone check it for me was really helpful.”
Step outside your comfort zone
For those at the start of their apprenticeship journey, Chloe encourages people to make the most of every learning opportunity.
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more nervous you are, the more you should do it.”
Nominations for the 2026 Kaplan Apprenticeship Awards are now open
The Kaplan Apprenticeship Awards celebrate apprentices, employers, and learning partners making an outstanding impact across industries including technology, finance, and professional services.
Whether it’s recognising an apprentice who consistently goes above and beyond, celebrating the positive difference apprenticeships are making within your organisation, or recognising the mentors helping learners succeed, submitting a nomination is an opportunity to showcase success, inspire others and give achievements the recognition they deserve.
Nominations for the Kaplan Apprenticeship Awards are now open, and close on 14th August 2026.