The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is celebrating the success of Ryan Christian, a talented Engineering Apprentice in the shore-based IOMSPC workshop team and University College Isle of Man (UCM) Engineering student, who has received the prestigious Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Merseyside and Western Cheshire Local Network Prize for Student Excellence. The award recognises his outstanding commitment and performance in engineering studies at a non-accredited educational institution.
It celebrates students pursuing courses within the IET’s broad fields of interest, including electrical, mechanical and systems engineering, at higher or further education establishments not formally accredited by the IET. Ryan’s success exemplifies the spirit of the award, which recognises emerging engineering talent across diverse learning environments.
Ryan began his engineering journey with the University College Isle of Man’s Technicals in Engineering Diploma, where his passion for the subject quickly became evident. Driven by a desire to enter the industry and gain real-world experience, he successfully secured an apprenticeship with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company in the shore-based workshop team combining hands-on work with continued academic study. He continues to balance work and education through his apprenticeship and is on track to complete his HNC in Engineering next academic year.
Steam Packet Managing Director, Brian Thomson, said: "It’s fantastic to see Ryan win this prestigious award and it is a reflection of his dedication, hard work, and passion for learning. Our apprentices play a key role in running the island’s lifeline ferry service and the future of the maritime industry as a whole, and seeing Ryan’s talent recognised is truly inspiring. We’re thrilled to celebrate his success and look forward to continuing to support Ryan and all of our apprentices as they continue to grow their career with us.”
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has successfully run a programme of local engineering apprenticeships through the shore-based workshop team for a number of years. Last year the scheme was expanded to include Deck Rating positions, creating even more opportunity for local talent interested in pursuing a career in the maritime industry.
"Our apprenticeship schemes offer a great route into the maritime industry and we're proud to nurture local talent," said Ethel Docherty, Head of Human Resources. "Through hands-on experience and mentoring, our apprentices gain the skills and confidence they need to build long-term careers, and it's fantastic seeing Ryan recognised with this award."
As part of the award, Ryan received a certificate of achievement and a monetary prize, along with the opportunity to engage further with the IET’s professional community. The Local Network Prize for Student Excellence continues to support and inspire students like Ryan, helping to build a more inclusive and dynamic future for the engineering profession.
