In an industry first, Jacob Pettit, Shift Supervisor at Renault Trucks dealer, JDS Truck & Van, Blackburn, has won both the IRTE Northern Centre Apprentice of the Year and IRTE Northern Centre Young Truck Engineer of the Year Award. His record-breaking achievement has earned him the prestigious Chris Grime Excellence in Engineering Award also by the IRTE in recognition of his technical excellence and remarkable work ethic.

Jacob had previously won the IRTE Northern Centre Apprentice of the Year in 2018 and claimed the Young Truck Engineer of the Year award in 2024, completing an impressive first ever double win. The talented young engineer was presented with the award by Chris Grime in March 2024

In October 2024, Jacob further solidified his reputation by winning the Young Engineer of the Year at Transport News’ Northern Rewards, securing his third accolade this year. 

Jacob joined the JDS Truck & Van Renault Trucks Apprentice Scheme at the age of 16 following a school work-experience placement, which set him on the career path to qualified HGV technician.

Commenting on his impressive streak of awards, Jacob said: “It’s an honour to receive these awards, and I would like to thank the entire JDS team, in particular Graham Smith and Owen Newton, for supporting me throughout my apprenticeship and career. Now I’m mentoring apprentices myself, I know that there’s so much more to it than teaching them how to spanner!”

Jacob’s manager, Aftermarket Director at JDS Truck & Van, Lee Drummond, said: “We noticed straight away that Jacob had a great attitude and work ethic, Graham Smith took him under his wing, and he flourished. When we recognise talent, we try to nurture it and pride ourselves on promoting from within and Jacob has proven himself to be a highly valued member of our team. Receiving multiple industry awards is a testament not only to his expertise, but also his commitment to quality and service. We are incredibly proud of him, and we look forward to seeing his continued impact on both JDS and on the industry.”

Emma Thompson Executive Director of the IRTE said: “Jacob Pettit’s remarkable double win is a powerful reflection of the values we hold dear at the IRTE: technical excellence, dedication, and fostering future leaders in road transport engineering. His journey from apprentice to award-winning engineer exemplifies how nurturing talent and providing the right opportunities can lead to extraordinary achievements."

“The IRTE is committed to supporting professionals like Jacob throughout their careers, promoting best practices, and ensuring the highest standards in our industry. Jacob’s success not only highlights his own hard work but also underscores the importance of mentorship and community in the engineering profession. We are proud to celebrate his achievements and the continued growth and inspiration he brings to our field.”

The IRTE (Institute of Road Transport Engineers) is a professional body that is part of the SOE (Society of Operations Engineers) and supports HGV and PSV professionals throughout their careers encouraging high standards in maintenance of sectors crucial to employment and public safety.