Apprenticeships are changing. You can find out more about our work on apprenticeships at ukces.org.uk/apprenticeship-funding
I knew from an early point in year 10 that ‘A’ levels and university was not the route I wished to take when looking for a career. I have always had a keen interest in fast, expensive cars. At first it was for the obvious reasons, but then I started to take more of an interest in the technology that is behind that sleek exterior, and the design methods and manufacture. I also felt I was good at practical activities and enjoyed the hands-on elements associated with learning.
I was fortunate enough to attend various company workshops and several two week long work experience placements which highlighted the positives of employment and the benefits this route could bring to me. My passion, talents and interest all pointed in the same direction - it seemed a logical conclusion for me to secure Engineering Apprenticeship. What better way was there to train for the future? I would learn skills that can not only benefit me now, but also in any future direction my life may take.
One of the work experience placements was with Total Metal Products. I’d known of TMP through family and because it’s close to my school in Monmouth. TMP is a growing, forward-thinking company with its core business in the automotive industry which has links to my enthusiasm for cars. I see myself being able to gain experience and training in all aspects of TMPs business from the shop floor to design and development of their products and hopefully one day management of their key activities. I would like to say the opportunity was such a good fit that it was a really obvious choice to make.
I’m just at the start of my apprenticeship now. In my first few years I’ll be training away from the factory environment. Here, I’ll gain the necessary training in how to work in a safe and responsible way and use the equipment which will become the foundation of my career. Where I am now at the Hereford Group Training Association is the ideal place to do this. I like the mix of trainees that are in our group, with the older ones able to provide some real life experience to the activities.
My vision for the future is quite a simple one at this time: gain the necessary skills, experience, and further my qualifications, that will allow my continuation in an industry that can only grow for a very long time.
The “standard” route to progression of ‘A’ Levels and university is not for everyone, and I feel the same outcome for a stable career with job satisfaction can be achieved by completing an apprenticeship in a field that is of interest to you. Not only would you gain valuable experience, but receive a salary along the way!
This apprenticeship is the result of a UKCES co-funded SEMTA project, which is helping to increase uptake of Apprenticeships in the Engineering sector. For more information about this project, please visit SEMTA's website.
2 comments
Comment by Jerry Adams posted on
Great read!
Comment by James Middlecote posted on
Awh, thank you very much!! appreciate it!!