It’s National Apprenticeship Week, and to mark the occasion we are sharing insights from five of our newest recruits.

If you’re a parent, student, or young person considering an apprenticeship, read the interviews below as we asked Charlie, Cole, Mason, Jack and Billy three key questions:

1. Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?

2. What advice would you give to someone considering an engineering apprenticeship?

3. Did you have any preconceptions about apprenticeships or working in engineering, and were they accurate?

We hope their experiences help highlight the opportunities that apprenticeships can offer. Interviews by Heather Butters.

Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?

Charlie
I mainly chose an apprenticeship because, growing up, I was always interested in working on projects. As I progressed through school, engineering became an option, and once I chose it, I realised it was what I wanted to do as a career. With mechanical engineering, an apprenticeship is a brilliant way to learn the knowledge and skills required from people with years of experience. Alongside college learning, it creates a strong foundation for a future in engineering.

Cole
I chose an apprenticeship because it allows me to learn in a hands-on, practical way while also gaining real work experience that I wouldn’t get anywhere else. I also liked the idea of earning while learning and applying what I’ve learnt straight away in a real-world environment. Apprenticeships provide a clear pathway into a career, with experience and qualifications that employers value, which was a big reason for my decision.

Mason
An apprenticeship is a great way to start your career and a valuable life experience that shows you what working life is really like. It provides learning opportunities and helps develop your social skills by working with lots of people who have the knowledge and ability to help you thrive in whatever you choose to do.

Jack
I chose an apprenticeship because it gave me the opportunity to earn while gaining a qualification. The pay definitely helps with motivation to complete college work. I also wanted to be in the workplace as soon as possible to gain as much hands-on experience as I could.

Billy
I chose an apprenticeship because it opened up a wider range of opportunities for me and allowed me to gain work experience within an engineering company.

What advice would you give to someone considering an engineering apprenticeship?

Charlie
Firstly, make sure you understand what it involves. If you’re coming straight from school or college, there are no more long summer holidays – you’re working now. An engineering apprenticeship is one of the best ways into mechanical engineering, with hands-on exposure to real work. If you’re considering it and you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, go for it.

Cole
I’d advise researching the different types of engineering apprenticeships available and choosing one that interests you and that you’ll enjoy. Be prepared to manage your time well between work and college to avoid falling behind. I’d also recommend asking plenty of questions and learning from any mistakes you make along the way.

Mason
As you might expect, it’s very hands-on and involves getting stuck into the work, but there’s also a strong knowledge-based side. Understanding what you’re learning at college, and why, is just as important. My advice would be to enjoy your time, and if it’s something you’re passionate about, focus on being happy throughout your apprenticeship.

Jack
Before deciding where to do your apprenticeship, try to get some work experience to understand the role and the company you’d like to work for. During your apprenticeship, it’s also important to stay on top of college work, as this is just as important as the practical side.

Billy
Don’t sit around waiting for an opportunity to appear. Look around your local area and try to speak to people in the companies you’d be interested in working for.

Did you have any preconceptions about apprenticeships or working in engineering, and were they accurate?

Mason
Yes. Everyone, including me, had a rough idea of how important this decision was, but I can honestly say it was the best decision I’ve made so far.

Billy
My main preconception was that, as an apprentice, I’d be seen as someone who couldn’t do much and would just be given odd jobs or cleaning tasks. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Everyone has been very welcoming and keen to show me new processes and teach me whatever I want to learn.

Thank you to all five of our young engineers. Their insights will hopefully help school leavers, parents and education providers make more informed decisions and challenge any preconceptions about engineering and apprenticeships.

Pictured (left to right): Jack Chambers, William (Billy) Auckland, Mason Powell, Charlie Hall and Cole Green-Rowland.