From Apprentice to award-winning Coxswain

12 June 2026

 

Congratulations to Hollie McGarry, one of our newly appointed Coxswains, who has been named the winner of the Workboat Association’s prestigious John Percival Memorial Award, recognising the UK’s outstanding workboat apprentice or trainee.

Nominated by both Harwich Haven Authority and apprenticeship training provider SeaRegs Training, Hollie received the award in recognition of the hard work, commitment and dedication she has shown throughout her apprenticeship journey and subsequent career progression.

Since joining HHA as a Marine Apprentice, Hollie has developed her skills and knowledge across the business, progressing to become a full Coxswain in just a few years. Her achievement is a testament not only to her determination and professionalism, but also to the support, guidance and expertise shared by colleagues from across HHA throughout her development.

The John Percival Memorial Award is presented annually to the workboat industry’s most outstanding apprentice or trainee and is highly regarded across the sector. Receiving this award is a significant achievement and a reflection of the positive impact Hollie has made both within HHA and the wider maritime industry.

Please join us in congratulating Hollie on this fantastic and thoroughly deserved achievement.

Hollie’s success demonstrates the value of apprenticeships in developing future talent and highlights the career opportunities available within the maritime sector. As we celebrate her achievement, it’s worth noting that we are also recruiting for our next Marine Apprentice, offering another aspiring maritime professional the opportunity to begin their own career journey with HHA. For more information on the role, visit ths link.