Since joining The HEX Group in September 2024, Doug Hughes’s employers say he has made an exceptional impression both as an apprentice and as a valued member of the wider team.

Doug came to Hixon-based The HEX Group straight from sixth form, where he studied Business and Double Sport. From early on, he knew that university wasn’t for him. He wanted to combine practical, hands-on experience with academic learning. With a long-standing interest in both business and engineering, the apprenticeship route offered the best of both worlds.

The Level 3 Manufacturing Support Technician apprenticeship aligned perfectly with his strengths and ambitions, and his interest in sales made his current role as an Internal Sales Engineer a natural fit.

At Stafford College, where he studies one day a week, Doug has covered engineering drawings, health and safety, and regulations. He is eager to continue building his knowledge in mechanical principles, always bringing his enthusiasm for learning into the workplace.

Doug has become a key member of the Alpha Manufacturing team, working at the interface between sales and production. He plays an important role in preparing accurate technical information, supporting the smooth and professional delivery of customer projects. He has learned how to read and analyse engineering drawings, identify potential manufacturing issues, and ask the right questions to ensure successful outcomes.

His ability to cost jobs accurately and communicate clearly with both customers and internal teams has been impressive, particularly given the short time he has been in the role.

Doug has also taken on additional responsibilities beyond what is expected of an apprentice. He identified an opportunity to streamline operations by implementing a new CRM system, Monday, into Alpha Manufacturing. His proactive approach and understanding of workflow challenges meant he was trusted to lead this project, which is already making a positive impact.

His manager, Corey Hammond, said: “Doug has made a significant impact and quickly become a vital part of the team. In his role supporting the sales team, he plays a key part in bridging the gap between winning a job and getting it into production. He takes responsibility for preparing accurate technical information, helping ensure projects move forward smoothly and professionally.

“What stands out most is how quickly he has developed. He has learned to cost jobs accurately, produce professional quotes, communicate directly with customers to gather key information, and identify any potential manufacturing concerns prior to production. He has also picked up the ability to read technical drawings and ask the right questions, both internally and with customers, to make sure we are capable of producing each part to the required standard.

“His willingness to learn and show initiative, while delivering a high standard of work, has made him a real asset to the business. He shows maturity beyond his experience, brings value across departments, and continues to take on more responsibility with a positive mental attitude. Doug has also recently expressed interest in how to deal with more demanding customers and is eager to be involved in key customer meetings to build a better understanding of customer and supplier connections.

“Given the progress he has made, the quality of his work, and the positive impact he has had on the team, I believe he is a very strong candidate not only for Apprentice of the Year 2025, but to be an essential part of The HEX Group’s future.”

Doug Hughes has been nominated in the Apprentice of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.