There’s no shortage of talent at Sellafield Ltd, as highlighted at the recent UK Nuclear Skills Awards where Anouschka Van Mourik and Rachel Gleaves picked up the Graduate of the Year (Science, Technology and Engineering) and the Higher & Degree Apprentice of the Year award respectively.

The UK Nuclear Skills Awards are organised by the National Skills Academy for Nuclear (NSAN) and Cogent Skills. The awards highlight the excellence that exists within the nuclear sector.

Anouschka Van Mourik is a commissioning engineer who has recently completed the Sellafield Ltd graduate scheme.

In winning the award, Anouschka was recognised for her exceptional contributions and rapid development as a graduate. In her drive to exceed expectations, she was praised for her technical intelligence, innovative problem-solving abilities and leadership skills. Anouschka was also recognised for her active promotion of STEM and diversity within the organisation.

Anouschka said:

I’m delighted to have won this award amongst an impressive shortlist of fellow nuclear professionals, and this has been a fantastic way to complete my two-year graduate scheme.

During my time as a graduate, I’ve been able to contribute to many meaningful projects that have not only helped me to develop professionally but have also helped to enhance safety on the Sellafield site.

I have been able to do my core role whilst promoting diversity at Sellafield as chair of the Gender Balance Network and as a Diversity Committee member. I look forward to continuing this work alongside my professional development at Sellafield.

Rachel Gleaves, a control systems engineer at Sellafield Ltd who finished her apprenticeship in 2024, was recognised at the event for her exceptional work ethic, leadership, and dedication to both the profession and community.

She was described as a true role model to the wider industry. and was praised for her contribution to key business targets in nuclear hazard reduction, and her commitment to diversity, inclusion and education.

Rachel said:

As an apprentice at Sellafield I have been privileged to be able to work alongside industry experts to contribute to solving world-first nuclear decommissioning challenges.

I’ve been provided with endless opportunities to get involved with passions outside my usual day job. I am the founder and chair of the Sellafield Degree Apprentice Council, and also support our Women in Operational Technology Group by promoting engineering careers through STEM initiatives.

I’m so proud to have been recognised alongside some of the most skilled professionals within the nuclear sector.

Moneka Duffy, a mechanical designer at Sellafield Ltd, also received an acknowledgement in the Higher & Degree Apprentice of the Year award. She was shortlisted due to her exceptional contributions and rapid development within the challenging field of radioactive waste management.

Lauren Lesiak, Education Manager at Sellafield Ltd said:

We have always aimed to create a high calibre of budding nuclear professionals through our graduate and apprenticeship schemes.

Having multiple nominations at these prestigious industry awards is credit to the quality of learning and development they receive with us, and the opportunities available within our wide range of programmes.

We’re incredibly proud of all three of our nominees – they are a testament to Sellafield, the nuclear industry and their professions.

As a committed member of NSAN, Sellafield Ltd sponsored the Best Employer & Training Provider Partnership Supporter award. This was won by BAE Systems Submarines & Blackpool and The Fylde College & the Fylde College.