This National Apprenticeship Week, two apprentices at PTI have shared their apprenticeship opportunities, experiences and advice for anyone considering a career in engineering. What does it take to succeed and what’s it really like?
Deacon and Josh both agree that having an open mind and a willingness to learn precision engineering is key. They were surprised to discover the opportunities available.
Both are now into their second year of a four year apprenticeship. They spend three days a week at college and two days in the workplace. They discovered the opportunities at PTI in different ways.
“I have a big interest in motorsport but opportunities in this area were hard to find. It was only when I went to In-Comm for an interview that they suggested PTI would be a great match. They were absolutely right, I came to PTI for an interview and that was it,” said Josh.
Despite living across the road from PTI, it was a surprise to Deacon that opportunity was right on his doorstep.
Amazing Variety of Work
“I lived just across the road and when I went for an initial interview with In-Comm and then at PTI, it was a big surprise to find out the amazing variety of work and precision engineering projects for different industries that I could be a part of,” Deacon explained.
Besides the opportunity to learn and develop skills, being part of a business that’s growing and going places is also important.
“Even in the couple of years I’ve been here, it’s been great to see the positive changes. I have also been able to learn on the new machines and see the projects come to life,” said Deacon.
Josh agrees. “It’s exciting to be part of a team that’s so supportive and is going for growth, I like that. It’s never boring. Keeping an open mind can lead to more and a chance to progress into more senior roles in the future.”
Surprises and Support
There have also been surprises along the way which the pair have taken in their stride.
“What’s surprised me is the tolerances and how precise you have to be at every step because ultimately that affects how our customers’ system works. I’ve been supported all the way and I only have to ask if I’m unsure about anything,” explained Josh.
Deacon agreed; “When I first started I only knew the basics. It’s been a real eye opener just to see the level of detail that’s involved. I’ve always had an interest in making things work. Now I’m being helped to do exactly that, it’s a win win for me,” he said.
Find out more about our apprenticeship opportunities and careers with PTI at Tamworth or Langstone Engineering in Portsmouth. Please send an email with the subject ‘Apprenticeship’ to fayen@ptiltd.co.uk and we’ll be in touch.
Find out more about our ‘National Apprenticeship Week’ celebrations and previous apprenticeship opportunities here
