AN ENGINEERING apprentice who overcame a major academic leap and an incredibly difficult year for her family has been shortlisted for a prestigious regional award.
Olivia Ashley, 20, from Prestatyn, is studying an HNC in Mechanical Technology at Coleg Cambria Deeside while completing a four-year craft apprenticeship with St Asaph-based Teledyne Qioptiq.
The former Prestatyn High School pupil is one of five finalists for the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) Merseyside and North Wales Region Most Improved Apprentice Award 2026, with the winner announced at its Annual Dinner in Chester on October 16.
Olivia joined the HNC after completing a range of professional and practical qualifications. The step up to the higher-level course was a significant obstacle, particularly in the scientific modules, and required considerable preparation and commitment to successfully make the transition.
Early assessments highlighted the scale of the challenge, but additional support and Olivia’s determination led to a dramatic improvement, culminating in 73% in her Mechanical Principles examination in January.
Her progress is all the more significant given a difficult period away from college. Olivia lost her grandfather on New Year’s Day and, around the same time, her younger brother Declan, 17, was diagnosed with cancer and underwent chemotherapy. He is now recovering well, while her nan is also facing treatment for a brain tumour.
Rather than allowing those challenges to derail her studies, Olivia says the strength shown by her family inspired her to keep going.
“It was a challenge at first because I didn’t have that foundation and wasn’t prepared for the step up, but I’ve had so much support,” she said.
“Everyone has been there every step of the way, and I’ve loved every minute of it. It’s really built my confidence.
“My family have inspired me to keep going and focus on my college work. Declan has been so brave and is recovering well - he’s been an inspiration to me.
“I was so surprised to be shortlisted for the award. Just to be recognised is a great achievement and I’m so pleased.”
Olivia also volunteered to become Student Representative within weeks of starting the programme.
Salah Berdouk, Curriculum Director for Advanced Engineering at Coleg Cambria, praised her progress, saying she had grown from struggling with the basics to leading her peers.
Now working in vacuum coating at Teledyne Qioptiq, Olivia is on course to become a Grade 6 Operator when she completes her apprenticeship. The company specialises in advanced optical and photonic technologies for markets including defence, aerospace and space.
Supported throughout by boyfriend Jake and her family, Olivia is also proud to represent young women in STEM and hopes more will consider engineering apprenticeships.
“I would definitely encourage more young women to apply,” she said.
“It’s a great career and we need to see more girls coming through. An apprenticeship is a brilliant pathway because you can earn as you learn.”