Mountmellick native Emma McCann has been named Electrical Apprentice of the Year at the fourth National Apprentice of the Year Awards in Dublin’s Mansion House.
A third-year electrical apprentice with Microsoft Ireland Operations Limited, Emma was selected as one of just twelve national category winners from more than 330 nominees across Ireland.
Her achievement comes in a year when nine other apprentices from Laois-based companies were also shortlisted across sectors including transport operations, hairdressing, supply chain, insurance, retail supervision and electrical, further strengthening Laois’s national standing in apprenticeship education.
The event, coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Office, recognises the contribution of more than 30,000 active apprentices across 78 programmes countrywide.
It was also a proud night for Laois when International Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins, who represented Laois and is herself an electrical apprentice, received the Outstanding Ambassador Award for promoting apprenticeship careers, particularly among young women.
Paid to learn – and pushed to grow
Emma, a past pupil of Scoil Chríost Rí in Portlaoise, says the school environment supported ambition and achievement:
“It was a brilliant school. There was loads of encouragement to do well, which really made a difference.”
Emma says she always loved maths and science and first considered engineering before discovering apprenticeships: “I took a year out to think about what I really wanted.
“My aunty and uncle told me about the Microsoft apprenticeship, I went for the interview, and I got it.
“I’m so glad I did. You’re getting paid to learn and the industry is constantly evolving, which keeps things exciting.”
Working within Microsoft’s data centres, she is part of the critical environment team: “It’s hands-on work with real impact. We look after electrical systems that have to run reliably at all times.
“Being in that environment with skilled professionals has pushed me to grow and learn every day.”
A surreal and defining moment
On receiving the national award, she admits the moment felt surreal: “I genuinely thought they had called the wrong name. I couldn’t stop smiling. It gave me huge reassurance that I’m on the right path.”
Her employer’s reaction matched her own: “I had two of my managers with me and they were delighted.
“I’ve had incredible support throughout. Everyone I work with contributes to creating such an encouraging environment.
“The culture is all about collaboration and growth. I owe huge thanks to Michael McGovern, Niall Ivory, Des Murphy and the DUB06 Team.”
She also credits backing from family and friends for her success; “I’m lucky to have amazing support from my friends and family – they’re always cheering me on and love what I do!”
“If I can do it, anyone can”
Emma says her win is also a message to others – especially young women: “Being a woman in a male-dominated field can be daunting, but if I can do it, anyone can.
“Apprenticeships give you skills, qualifications, income and experience all at once. People should hear about them much earlier than they do.”
She believes mentorship and visibility matter: “When women step into these roles, it challenges stereotypes and shows ability isn’t defined by gender.
“By taking that step, you’re not just building your own future, you’re paving the way for others and helping create a more inclusive industry. Diversity brings fresh perspectives, and that benefits everyone.”
Emma’s advice for school leavers and those considering a career change: “I’d strongly encourage anyone to consider an apprenticeship.
“For me, the hands-on training has been invaluable. I’ve learned so much by actually doing the work.
“Being able to apply theory to real-world tasks not only reinforces what you’ve learned but also gives you a much deeper understanding.
“Plus, you gain practical experience while building your career, which is something college alone can’t always offer.”
With one phase of training left before qualification, she hopes to progress into electrical engineering or energy management, calling the opportunities “endless”.
Between Emma’s national category win, nine Laois apprentices shortlisted, and an apprenticeship ambassador award for the International Rose of Tralee, 2025 marks a landmark year for Laois, and a clear demonstration that apprenticeship routes are not a second-choice alternative, but a proven, respected and career-defining pathway to success.
See here for previous articles about alternatives to the traditional CAO route – Apprenticeships, PLCs, Traineeships.
Martina Mulhall, Gold Star Careers offers one-to-one or small group career advice, in-person or online, to people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Follow on Instagram for updates and reminders about all things careers, or head over to the website to book a personalised guidance session.
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