Ballymena apprentice Stephanie Millar recognised by Pilgrim’s Europe for food industry career success

Pilgrim’s Europe Technical Apprentice Stephanie Millar pictured at the company’s Ballymena site.

Pilgrim’s Europe has shone a spotlight on Ballymena-based apprentice Stephanie Millar during National Apprenticeship Week, recognising her progression from farm life in Coleraine to a skilled technical role within the food industry.

Stephanie, who works as a Technical Apprentice at the company’s Ballymena facility, joined Pilgrim’s Europe’s apprenticeship programme after deciding university was not the right path for her.

Her journey underscores the growing role of apprenticeships in Northern Ireland as a practical and rewarding alternative route into employment.

From Coleraine farm life to Ballymena food production career

Growing up on a farm in Coleraine nurtured Stephanie’s interest in agriculture and food production. Determined to pursue a career close to home, she secured a place on Pilgrim’s Europe’s structured apprenticeship programme.

Now in her technical role, Stephanie focuses on food safety and quality auditing at the Ballymena site.

Alongside her full-time work, she is studying part-time at Loughry College, combining hands-on industry experience with formal qualifications.

“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.”

Real-world industry experience and professional development

During her apprenticeship, Stephanie has contributed to projects spanning analysis, planning and forecasting records, supporting ingredient waste reduction initiatives and representing Pilgrim’s Europe at major industry events, including the Balmoral Show.

Her work reflects the practical, workplace-based focus of the programme, where apprentices gain direct responsibility while being mentored by experienced professionals.

Pilgrim’s Europe offers apprenticeship pathways across a range of disciplines, including engineering and technical roles. Participants earn while they learn, working towards recognised qualifications with ongoing support and opportunities for progression within the business.

Strengthening the local workforce

Ashleigh Scarlett, Head of Culture & Performance at Pilgrim’s Europe, 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 approaches the final stages of her apprenticeship, she hopes her experience will encourage other young people across Ballymena and the wider region to consider apprenticeships as a viable and fulfilling career pathway.

Her progression illustrates how structured training, industry exposure and local opportunity can combine to create long-term career prospects within Northern Ireland’s agri-food sector.