Electrical Contracting News (ECN) May 2017 | Page 30
FEATURE
APPRENTICESHIPS
YOUNG, WILLING AND ABLE
Over the past five years Hudson Contract has sponsored more than 80 apprentices through its Apprentice
Sponsorship Scheme. Here, three of the scheme’s electrical apprentices discuss their experience so far.
Ben Dolan –
Electrical Apprentice
Ben Dolan is a 16 year old electrical
apprentice with Exley Smith Electrical
based in North Yorkshire. Keen to begin a
career, and to earn money while gaining
a qualification, Ben felt an apprenticeship
was the perfect choice for him.
He explains, ‘I knew my mates would
be at college full time and when they come
to the end of it, who’s to say that they will
even know what they want to with their
lives? I’d rather be assured with my future
than be unclear.
‘Since I started, I could never have
predicted the things I’d pick up so
quickly at both college and on site. You’re
gaining site experience and taking what
you learn into college with you to help
you in your exams.’
On advising other young people to
pursue an apprenticeship, Ben adds, ‘You’ll
be working somewhere new almost every
day and raking in the wonga! You may not
like the image of the construction industry,
even I was unsure of it at first, but now, I
love it! Take every opportunity that you may
think will benefit you – you will never know.’
Sean Thornton.
Sean Thornton –
Electrotechnical Apprentice
Max Thompson, owner of Yorkshire firm
Max Power Electrical, is only 26 years old,
and is already helping young people to get
their vital first job in construction. Sean
Thornton, 21, was invited to join the firm as
its very first apprentice last year.
Max says, ‘I’ve steadily built my
business and reputation over the past four
years and I was looking for somebody to
work alongside me. Yes, I could have taken
on an experienced electrician, but many
of the jobs I go to need two people, so an
apprentice made better sense.’
Sean comments, ‘Working and learning
at the same time is the best part of being
an apprentice. I’ve accompanied Max on
all sorts of jobs, from flood damaged
properties in York to completing the wiring
for Yorkshire’s first malt whisky distillery.
Some days are really long and it is hard
work, but I know it will be worth it in the
long term.’
30 | May 2017
Jordan Forsdyke.
Jordan Forsdyke –
Electrical Apprentice
Ben Dolan.
Working towards an electrical
apprenticeship with General Electrical
in North Yorkshire, 18 year old Jordan
Forsdyke says he would strongly
recommend a career in construction to
other young people.
Jordan comments, ‘I have always
been interested in the construction trade,
and wanted to train alongside skilled,
professional and experienced electricians.
My goal in work is to produce and maintain
well functioning electrical connections that
are safe for everyone’s use, and minimise
the risk of accidents while maximising the
usability of electricity in all facilities.
‘Every day is a challenge with an
apprenticeship – and I am always willing
to take on that challenge as you learn
something new and valuable every
day. I would strongly recommend this
apprenticeship to any interested individual
who has a passion for learning a practical
job from an experienced tradesman.’
Jordan continues, ‘The support given
by attending college on a day release basis
allows you to always feel supported, and
know you are being guided in the right
direction by the professionals who take the
time to teach you. I am at an advantage
in the sense that I receive regular
assessments and reviews from the tutor
at college visiting my work place – which
I feel is a huge benefit to my progression.
Due to this I never feel like I will struggle
alone as I am constantly surrounded by
people who are always willing to help,
support and guide me to the profession
that I have chosen.’