To recognise the Government’s Year of Engineering initiative to ‘inspire future engineers’, EEF is profiling some of the hundreds of engineering apprentices we train annually at our Aston Technology Hub. Here we profile William Heath, an engineering apprentice at Severn Trent, about his experience at the WorldSkills UK National Competition (where we and his partner won Gold!) and why he’s glad he chose an apprenticeship in engineering.
What was it like at the Skills competition?
It was a really challenging and intense three days. In preparing for the competition, we definitely learned a lot of new skills.
What was it like to win Gold?
It was really good; we didn’t expect it. The preparation we did with our EEF tutor helped massively.
What opportunities has being an apprentice opened up to you?
There are loads of benefits as an apprentice. You get qualifications as you earn money. Next year I’ll be working towards getting a degree while working at a company I want to work for. The actual work experience I’ve gotten is better than I would get an university.
The Government’s Year of Engineering is looking to ‘inspire future engineers’. What would you say to inspire young people to consider a career in engineering?
Don’t make a decision based on rumours or the opinions of your friends. Teachers will often push you towards university, because they don’t understand apprenticeships. Don’t be afraid to do something different and pursue engineering with an apprenticeship.
What are some of your career goals?
I’d like to pursue an instruction control and automation role in plants. My long-term goal is to achieve chartered engineering status.
To find out more about apprenticeships, visit EEF’s Technology Hub during our next Open Day.