I joined AWE as a Control and Instrumentation apprentice in 2017.
I have always had an interest in mechanical machining – thanks to my dad. I would go to the garage that he worked at every Saturday to help out and earn pocket money!
When I was at school deciding what career path to take -engineering was never really an option. At the time engineering and similar trades were not seen as a “career for girls”. I was encouraged to pursue a more “traditional” career such as childcare.
Before I joined AWE I worked at Basingstoke hospital. I got to a point in my career were I couldn’t climb the ladder any higher without further training. Due to funding, all training would have to be self-funded with unpaid leave. Being a mother of three boys and having a mortgage this just wasn’t an option for me.
After a close family friend recommended the AWE apprenticeship scheme I decided to apply. The company had a good reputation and I knew it would give me the skills to start a whole new career. And it was great to see that they accepted mature students!
A typical day for me involves working in the training academy building electronic circuits, learning how they work as well as gaining knowledge and understanding of the electrical and electronics industry. The best thing about my job is learning how things work and why. One big advantage is learning through both practical and theory work. I also have a great repour with my colleagues and we all help each other out.
Once I have successfully completed my apprenticeship I will earn a position within the business where I can further develop my skills and knowledge. After a few years of onsite experience I would like to come back to the academy to work. I love helping people, so to come back to teach new apprentices and handing over the knowledge I have learned would be really rewarding.
Changing my career path was a big decision but I’m so pleased I did. It has shown my children that no matter how old you are, you can study at any age and start a whole new career. There is a misconception that apprenticeships are just for school leavers – I wish someone had told me sooner how varied the age range is!