Local woman Stephanie Millar is being recognised by her employer Pilgrim’s Europe as part of National Apprenticeship week. Stephanie, a talented Technical Apprentice at the Pilgrim’s Europe Ballymena facility, whose journey from farm life in Coleraine to a thriving career in the food industry, highlights the value of apprenticeships as a route to a fulfilling and skilled career.
Stephanie joined Pilgrim’s Europe’s apprenticeship programme after deciding that university was not the right path for her. Growing up on a farm nurtured her love of agriculture and food production, and she seized the opportunity to turn that passion into a career close to home.
Now in her apprenticeship role, Stephanie focuses on food safety and quality auditing, gaining hands-on experience that goes far beyond textbook learning. Alongside her work at the Ballymena site, she is studying part-time at Loughry College, building both practical skills and industry knowledge.
“It was quite a step up from school, but I cannot describe how rewarding it is,” Stephanie says. “Earning my own money and gaining three years of industry experience gives you a real head start. Being trusted with responsibility has boosted my confidence and shown me how much I have grown since starting my apprenticeship.”
Stephanie’s work has included projects that make a real impact, from analysing, planning and forecasting records to supporting ingredient waste reduction and representing Pilgrim’s Europe at high-profile industry events such as the Balmoral Show.
Her story reflects the wider commitment at Pilgrim’s Europe to developing talent through structured apprenticeship pathways that combine on-the-job experience with recognised qualifications. Apprenticeships at the company cover a range of disciplines including engineering and technical roles, where apprentices work alongside experienced professionals while building valuable skills and earning as they learn. Successful apprentices are supported throughout and can progress within the business upon programme completion.
Ashleigh Scarlett, Head of Culture & Performance, said:
“National Apprenticeship Week is a reminder of the vital role apprenticeships play in unlocking careers for young people. Stephanie’s journey not only demonstrates what can be achieved through hard work and commitment, but also how apprenticeships help strengthen our local workforce and support growth in the food industry.”
As Stephanie heads into the final stages of her apprenticeship, she hopes her experience will encourage other young people in the region to explore apprenticeships as an alternative and rewarding career pathway.
