Morgan Hunt Resilience Award rewards higher education success of BMW technician

An engineering technician has been named the first recipient of an award created by BMet in partnership with Morgan Hunt to recognise higher education achievement. Bilal Suleman was presented with the Morgan Hunt Resilience Award at the college’s higher education awards ceremony.

“I’m honoured to receive the award,” said Bilal who lives in Leicester. “For me personally, resilience means believing in yourself and being focused. My career ambitions continue to revolve around engineering. This award indicates how far I’ve come and how much further I still want to go.”

The 26-year-old completed a Foundation Degree in Electronic & Control Engineering while working at BMW Group’s Hams Hall engine manufacturing plant.

Not only was his attendance 100%, he often put in additional hours of study to ensure that he continued to deliver work of the highest standard. His efforts paid off as he achieved a Distinction grade for each of his course units.

Cliff Hall, BMet Principal said: “The Resilience Awards have been launched as a way of showcasing the things that go on behind the scenes in a higher education students’ life. This includes balancing studies with work and personal commitments and supporting others.

“It’s important to showcase these accomplishments and we’re pleased to be doing this.

“Perseverance has been at the heart of Bilal’s higher education journey and we wish him well in his future career.”

Bilal joined BMW Group in 2014 as an apprentice technician, gaining a level 2 diploma in performing engineering operations at BMet, followed by a level 3 diploma in engineering manufacturing and technical support. He began his foundation degree in 2016, while being placed in different departments across the Hams Hall Plant. He now has a full-time role as a technical specialist at BMW Group.

“Many congratulations to Bilal,” said Harry Allen at Morgan Hunt. “His journey immediately stands out because he took the apprenticeship route into higher education and has shown immense dedication to his continued training and academic development.

“This unwavering commitment makes him a worthy award winner.”