Shortlisted Jacob – along with several cheerleading Aztek colleagues – enjoyed a sparkling night of celebrations at the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce 30 under 30 awards 2026.
Regular readers will recognise Jacob Ibbetson, Aztek Network and Fibre Technician, who achieved highly commended at the Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards 2026.
Now, hot on the shiny heels of that success, this inspiring and innovative young man found himself suited, booted and highly reputed once again for Cornwall Chamber of Commerce’s 30 under 30 Awards at the Falmouth Hotel.
The event recognises and celebrates young talent in Cornwall for their success, ambition and drive, and Jacob was one of 80 shortlisted nominees. Backed up by Aztek team members cheering him on, he could take pride in the fact that out of thousands of young professionals in Cornwall, he was right up there with the best.
The Sweetest Feeling
From the 80 shortlisted, 30 names were revealed over the course of the night, each one recognised for their contribution and achievements.
While Jacob was not among the final 30, the significance of the moment was never just about the outcome. Being shortlisted placed him among the most talented and driven young people helping shape the county’s future – the cream, if you will, on the jam on the great scone of Cornwall! 😀 🍾
It was also a great opportunity for our team, Gosia, Paul and Keira, to step away from the day to day and celebrate and support Jacob, alongside so many other young professionals. The atmosphere carried throughout the evening, with each winner met with loud cheers, plenty of conversation across the tables, and a real sense of celebration – all rounded off with some great food.
A big congratulations to everyone shortlisted and to the winners on the night.
A Reminder of Jacob’s Story
For us, this was the first time we had ever nominated anyone for the Cornwall 30 Under 30 Awards, so for Jacob to be shortlisted at our first attempt is a great achievement, both for him and for Aztek.
For Jacob, being nominated reflected his remarkable story, in which he overcame health issues to complete his apprenticeship at Aztek to become a Junior Tier 1 Network and Fibre Technician. But that wasn’t all. Following his apprenticeship, he has taken on an important role within a growing internal cabling team, mentoring colleagues and supporting its development.
For Aztek, to have one of our own among 80 of Cornwall’s most promising young professionals is a strong reflection of the work happening behind the scenes and our continued growth.
What…? Another?!
And Jacob’s recognition at Cornwall Chamber of Commerce’s 30 Under 30 at Falmouth isn’t the end of the awards story. Now on first-name terms with the drycleaning lady at Redruth Tesco, he and his freshly laundered suit will be heading off very shortly to Cornwall’s Rewind Radio Business Awards, where Aztek has been named double finalists.
Jacob has been shortlisted for Rising Star, and Aztek is a finalist for Employer of the Year, recognising the positive culture and working environment we have built across the business. Another exciting night out beckons!
