“Be Part of the Solution: Where are the UKIFDA Young Person of the Year Winners Now?” is the Wolfe Power Club’s inaugural live podcast episode, hosted by Alex Wolfe and introduced by Noz Miah of sponsors AIM Recruit.
Showcasing the inspiring stories of three previous winners of the UKIFDA Young Person of the Year Award, the podcast introduced the audience to Harry Boxall, Hannah Ward and Emily Yates. It was a highly engaging session – one of my personal highlights.
Their stories weren’t just impressive – they were deeply human, grounded in resilience, determination, and a fierce commitment to service.
Their honesty and inspirational insights confirmed that, alongside legislation for a swift and just transition, what this industry really needs is more of this passionate next generation.
Discover who inspired them, the challenges they have faced and their visions for industry future as well as their thoughts on how we can do better as an industry to encourage more of these inspirational future leaders to join us.
From apprenticeship to impact
All three began as apprentices or career changers. Emily, who started in childcare, joined Craggs Energy’s sales academy, and is now Operations and Transport Manager. Hannah’s first job was in customer service at Certas Energy which she describes as “probably the best decision I’ve ever made” and where she completed a Level 3 apprenticeship – she now trains others as a Sales Trainer. Disillusioned by car sales, Harry left to join Evesons Fuels (part of NWF) progressing to Depot Manager, and now represents Fast Exocet, a key industry supplier.
Each attributed their success to mentors who took a chance on them. Hannah credited former team manager, Nicola Blake, saying: “She helped me grow – I wouldn’t be who I am today without her.” Emily noted the constant support of her parents along with that of Chris Bingham and Matthew Crockett who have “supported me from my apprenticeship to now.” Harry acknowledged Luke, the owner of the car dealership who “gave me a shot in sales” and the guidance of Nick Seabourne, Depot Manager at NWF.
Recognition through action
Their awards weren’t handed out lightly. Emily was recognised not just for her sales work, but for personally delivering emergency fuel in freezing conditions. “It was about putting customers first – especially vulnerable ones,” she explained.
Harry’s was for operational excellence. “We had a record year, and I was the youngest manager in the business,” he said.
Hannah, ever modest, admitted: “I think I just did my job really well – and I loved it, even the complaints department!”
The realities of keeping customers fuelled
It’s easy to romanticise success, and all three were enthusiastic about the jobs they do, but also made clear that this industry isn’t without its challenges.
Emily described late nights trying to coordinate deliveries during crises and the challenge of transitioning from apprentices to manager. Hannah recounted a day helping a crying, fuel-less pensioner during the Beast from the East. “It was challenging but rewarding,” she said.
Harry spoke of the chaos when every truck went offline. “That was a tough day. All of them were off the road. But with partners and determination, we still got the fuel out.”
Vision, ambition, and heart
Despite their youth, these industry professionals have a keen focus on where their futures may lie. Emily dreams of expanding her company’s fleet. Harry has his eye on senior management – or even, one day, his own business. Hannah wants to build a team of trainers to nurture new talent the way she was nurtured.
When asked about long-term goals – millions, royal honours, or industry transformation – they showed both endearing honesty and humility. A born salesman, Harry admitted the lure of the money but only alongside industry respect. Emily could also see the appeal but prized pride in her role, health and happiness above wealth while, for Hannah, “Helping others achieve their goals would be the biggest honour.”
Solutions
Asked how the government could help, Emily called for clarity on tax rules for renewable fuels. Hannah championed more support for vulnerable households, and Harry emphasised the need to back British farmers.
They were equally passionate about benefits of customer education and greater understanding: order on time, reduce unnecessary pressure on the system, and adopt innovations like telemetry and fuel additives.
Bringing in the next generation
Perhaps the most critical question came from the audience as Mark Duncan of Certas Energy asked: “How do we attract more young people to the industry?”
All three agreed – visibility is key. Emily has already taken a fuel truck to her former primary school. “It’s about showing them what’s possible,” she said. “I shared my story on LinkedIn, and another apprentice joined us because of that.”
Harry and Hannah agreed on the need for better marketing, highlighting those “unaware of the scale of the opportunity”, with Hannah calling for “more awareness of the development opportunities.”
A credit to the industry
The three winners are a credit to the award, the industry, their companies and themselves and their companies clearly agree.
Sharing their delight at Hannah’s inclusion in the podcast, Certas commented: “Since winning the UKIFDA Young Person of the Year award in 2022, our fantastic Sales Trainer Hannah Ward has continued to champion our values and ethos.
“Hannah has completed two apprenticeships at the company, moving into customer relations, and then shifted her focus to giving back to the team in a trainer role. She continues to help the next generation of sales professionals at Certas Energy reach their full potential!
“We’re so proud to have such a vibrant and bright individual in our team, and we all look forward to seeing what Hannah does next.”
Craggs shared news of Emily’s involvement saying: “Emily’s story is one we’re incredibly proud to share.
“Joining us in 2015, as an apprentice, she’s grown into her current role as Operations and Transport Manager, leading a team across multiple sites and managing a complex fleet operation with dedication and care.
“What sets Emily apart is not just her operational expertise – including earning her Class 1 and 2 HGV licences and stepping in to deliver fuel when needed – but her commitment to people. Whether it’s ensuring driver wellbeing, supporting isolated customers, or inspiring the next generation through school visits and her LinkedIn presence, Emily consistently goes above and beyond.
“She’s helping to change perceptions of the industry, particularly for young women, and has even inspired new apprentices to follow in her footsteps. Her passion, leadership, and authenticity are exactly what the future of fuel distribution looks like.”
A final word
At a time when energy transition and the industry future is on every agenda, it’s vital we listen to the people who will lead it. Not only are these young professionals technically skilled – they are emotionally intelligent, deeply committed, and refreshingly forward-thinking.
In their stories, we find a powerful reminder: the future of energy isn’t just about infrastructure or investment. It’s about people – passionate, purposeful, and poised to take the helm.
Our next issue will consider how we can attract more young people into the industry.
Image courtesy of UKIFDA
