Tech apprentice races to a world record

When one of our technology UK apprentices decided to take on the world’s deepest marathon – 1,120 meters underground in an active Swedish zinc mine – it wasn’t just a physical challenge. It was a test of resilience, grit and determination. We sat down with Toni to learn more about this incredible achievement and how it connects to her apprenticeship journey with us.

Toni, what inspired you to take on such an extreme challenge for your first marathon?

I’ve always been a “go big or go home” kind of person! When I started running in early 2025, I could barely manage 5K. But I kept pushing myself. First, a 5K race, then a 24-hour endurance event, and finally, the marathon. For me, it was about proving that with focus and determination, I can tackle hard tasks. I also wanted to inspire others like me to believe they can do the same.

How did you prepare for running in such harsh, underground conditions?

I followed a 16-week training plan, gradually increasing my mileage each week to build endurance. I even did a night race to get comfortable running in the dark! On top of that, I completed heat chamber sessions, running on a treadmill for 40 minutes at 37°C, to simulate the conditions in the mine.

Did your apprenticeship help you build the resilience and determination needed for this challenge?

Balancing work and studying as an apprentice is tough. It forces you to stay organized and plan methodically. The habits I’ve built throughout my apprenticeship, like careful scheduling and staying disciplined, are exactly what helped me manage marathon training alongside work and study.

Were there any lessons from your role that you applied during the race?

Absolutely! Breaking big tasks into smaller, manageable pieces is something I’ve learned at work and applied to this race. The marathon was 11 laps of 3.84 km, but I mentally grouped them into four sections. This made the challenge feel less overwhelming and helped me push through.

What parallels do you see between pushing through the marathon and tackling challenges in your career?

Challenges are inevitable, both in your career and in a marathon. The biggest parallel for me is remembering your “why”: why you chose to take on the challenge in the first place. In work, that might mean focusing on the benefits of completing a specific task or gaining a certification. In the race, it meant reminding myself of why I signed up - to strengthen my sense of self-belief and stay motivated.

Having clear goals, big or small, gives you direction and helps you improve a little every day. They push you to step out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself and grow your confidence - whether you’re crossing a finish line or achieving a milestone at work.

After conquering the world’s deepest marathon, what’s next for you?

I’m excited to be running the London Marathon in 2026, raising money for Lupus UK, a charity that supports people in the UK with the autoimmune condition.

But Toni’s journey isn’t just about running. Her technology apprenticeship has opened doors to hands-on experience in technology and AI, too.

How did you know technology was the right business area for you?

I’ve always had a passion for technology. Growing up, I loved playing coding games and exploring creative tools, which sparked my interest in art and design. That combination of creativity and tech naturally led me to a career in design within technology.

Working at UBS has taken that passion to the next level. Early in my career, I’ve had the chance to work hands-on with AI! Right now, I’m involved in developing a new application that integrates AI throughout its design. It’s taught me how to make AI features intuitive, accessible, and seamlessly aligned with the overall user experience.

What’s one memorable AI experience you’ve had here?

Attending the internal tech conference last year and hearing from industry leaders was eye-opening. I explored how AI is shaping robotics and immersive technologies, interacted with an intelligent robot and experienced virtual reality firsthand. It really brought the potential of AI to life in a tangible and exciting way.

Why do you think it’s important for young professionals to understand AI, regardless of their role?

AI is already so woven into our daily lives, and its influence will only grow. For young professionals, understanding AI isn’t just about tech, it’s about staying relevant. No matter your role, being aware of how AI impacts your industry helps you adapt and innovate.