A 19-year-old IT apprentice from Maidenhead has made history by becoming the first woman to win a Microsoft Apprentice of the Year Award.
Kimberley Bolton works as a Junior Support Consultant for Pythagoras, and was nominated by her employers in recognition of her positive attitude and hard work.
It is an important milestone in an industry where women make up less than 20% of the workforce.
Kimberley said: “Becoming an IT apprentice is the best thing I’ve ever done. I’ve gone from having no confidence and no IT knowledge to winning Microsoft Apprentice of the Year. I’ve really had to push myself, and now it’s all paid off.”
Firebrand Training’s UK Managing Director, Emma Seaman said: “If we are to reverse the downward trend of young women taking an interest in IT then we must break the stereotype that ‘IT is for geeks’. Role models like Kimberley play a crucial role in breaking down this misconception and inspiring the future generation of female IT professionals.”
