National Apprenticeship Week: My Apprenticeship Story

As the end of the 11^th National Apprenticeship Week #NAW2018 approaches, we wanted to celebrate our own Apprentice Emrys Hughes!

Recently fully qualified as a Technical Engineer, Emrys talked to us about his Apprenticeship experience.

How and why did you start your Apprenticeship?

After completing my A Levels I did not think that the university route was for me. To learn more on the job and gain hands on experience was more important to me.

I researched apprenticeships and applied through SETA and spent two years as an apprentice welder/fabricator for a crane manufacturer. 

Plasma Clean approached me through SETA and saw the potential benefits I could offer to the business. I have now spent 2 years at Plasma Clean and have not looked back since!

Why do you think apprenticeships work?

The best thing about being an apprentice is the large amount of support and training. Being an apprentice has enabled me to show my potential. It has also pushed me to develop skills such as communication, organisation and project management. Rising to each challenge has increased my self-confidence.  I also enjoy the time I spend in the classroom at college as the course enables me to apply and expand on what I have learnt on the job. 

What’s been your greatest achievement as an apprentice?

One project I am proud of is the complete management of an odour control project. Faced with a notice the owner approached Plasma Clean.  From initial site assessment, to supply and then commissioning of equipment I worked closely with the customer and local council to find the right odour control solution. As a chip shop there was a high level of grease and odour to factor in as well as access and spacing.

We provided our Techniclean UVC– grease and odour control solution. I specified the correct model that enabled a simple retrofit of the UVC tubes to the ductwork. The units were installed and completed to meet the approval of the local council.

The smell was completely removed, Environmental Health were very happy and the customer’s feedback – especially for the service I provided – was brilliant.

Read the case study here.

Next steps…

In the next stage of my career I will be looking to develop even more knowledge. I am also looking to make my way up the Plasma Clean ranks, with the help and support of my colleagues; I’d like to work towards a Supervisor role in Technical Services!

What would you say to someone considering an apprenticeship?

I would say that it is definitely worth it. I believe that an apprenticeship is a beneficial way to learn and develop into a highly skilled professional. The amount of support given is great and also the opportunity that can be created is unimaginable. I would highly recommend an apprenticeship. #worksforme

Over the last two years with Plasma Clean Emrys has successfully completed the Advanced Level Apprenticeship in Engineering Manufacture. He is now working towards a HNC Mechanical Engineering Qualification.  Emrys is an invaluable member of the Plasma Clean team! Read more here.

For more information on Apprenticeships please visit https://www.naw2018.co.uk/