Remi Newman from Essex Services Group Ltd (ESG) has been named as the winner of the ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year 2026, recognising her as one of the UK’s most outstanding apprentices in the electrotechnical and engineering services sector.

In an Awards luncheon held Wednesday 16 September, at Trinity House in London, three finalists were joined by their employers and stakeholders from across the sector to celebrate their achievements. The other two finalists were Samuel Leonard of P A Collacott & Co and Ethan Timmins, employed by Derry Building Services.

Remi was selected as this year’s winner after impressing the judging panel in her application and interview. She demonstrated a strong commitment to the future of the electrotechnical industry and exemplified the qualities that make her an excellent role model for her colleagues, peers and future entrants to the industry.

As the winner of the ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year 2026, Remi Newman takes home prizes including a £3,000 cash reward, an overseas study tour in Dornbirn in Austria and VIP tickets to the ECA Industry Awards in October.

ECA Member business Essex Services Group Ltd, Remi’s employer, is also recognised, receiving a one-year BSI subscription and a one-year Electrical OM Licence worth more than £300.

Glenn Grant, ECA President and Director at Drax360 (part of Obsequio Group), commented: "Now in its 51st year, the Edmundson Apprentice of the Year Award continues to attract outstanding apprentices, and this year’s finalists were no exception. Our industry relies on high-quality apprentices, and it’s so encouraging to recognise three talented and dedicated individuals who are helping to ensure our industry’s future is in good hands. Congratulations to Remi Newman, whose passion and skill will undoubtedly inspire others for years to come.”

Andy Hider, Managing Director at ESG, Remi's employer business said: "This is a huge accolade and reflects the hard work and sense of purpose Remi has demonstrated since starting with us in 2022. 
 
From her first day on site, she showed aptitude and resilience and she has excelled ever since. From mentoring the next cohort to providing meaningful feedback to help shape our scheme, Remi is a brilliant advocate for the electrical industry and women in construction. 
 
Remi is one of three women to pass their electrical apprenticeships with ESG this year, and we are extremely proud and look forward to watching Remi's career flourish.”
 

Keith Sanderson, ECA’s Head of Education and Skills, added:

“This year’s Edmundson awards candidates were of the highest standard and all performed to an extremely high level. The independent judging panel undertook a challenging and rigorous shortlisting process to determine the finalists for this year’s awards.  
 
“Congratulations to the well-deserving winner, Remi, and also to Samuel, Ethan and all of those who entered this year’s awards. It is clear that the future of the industry is in good hands.”