22nd May 2012
Step Awards 2004
5th Oct 2004
Local student succeeds in local company The Bedfordshire and Luton Shell Technology Enterprise Programme (STEP) agency hosted the 2004 STEP Local Awards on Thursday 2nd September. The Bedfordshire and Luton STEP agency places undergraduates in eight-week placements in small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs), enabling companies to find solutions to real business problems, using the skills of fresh-thinking undergraduates and encourages the students to explore career opportunities in the SME sector. The Local Awards confirmed the incredible results that can be achieved when talented, innovative undergraduates are placed into the world of small business. Each student gave a short presentation summarising their placement to a panel of judges and an invited audience. The winner, Katherine Richardson, studying Management Studies at the University of Nottingham, was placed with Evision International Limited, Chicksands, received a cheque for £500 presented by Richard Combes, Chairman of Business Link Bedfordshire and Luton, and will go onto the Regional Finals. Both Katherine and Evision reaped benefits from the STEP programme, Katherine reported “I held responsibility for a real project which proved to be successful for Evision. The STEP placement meant that I was able to enjoy my summer but learn and gain experience at the same time.” Katherine’s supervisor, Phil Biggin, Managing Director said of Katherine, “Fantastic! What an asset to Evision Katherine has been. We are a small company who struggle with managing today whilst planning for tomorrow-Katherine has single handedly led the way from which we can now grow.” The two runners-up Joanne Osborne placed with Ace Security, Woburn Industrial Estate and Michael Hackett-Mingsong placed with Bedford Citizens Housing Association, both received a cheque for £250. Chamber Business and i10 supported the awards, Justine Leonard from Bedford Borough Council sat on the panel of judges, along with John Willcock from Cranfield University and Richard Combes.
For further information:
STEP@cranfield.ac.uk
Contact Bedfordshire & Luton STEP Agency
