JTL, a leading apprenticeship provider in the building services engineering industry across England and Wales, is at the forefront of shaping the next generation of future-proofed, skilled professionals. Now just ahead of National Apprenticeship Week (5th-12th February), the training provider is highlighting the foundational role that apprenticeship qualifications play in the building of successful careers in the electrical industry.
Apprenticeships have long been recognised as an effective entryway for individuals to gain practical skills, theoretical knowledge and real-world industry insights. JTL is committed to delivering high-quality training to its learners and continues to champion the importance of apprenticeship qualifications in establishing a strong foundation for career success.
Apprentices can benefit from gaining industry-specific skills, the ability to earn while they learn and the opportunity to work with a wide network of industry professionals. It also provides foundation for apprentices to hone skills further by upskilling with additional and more specific qualifications to allow them to move into more specialised roles later in their career.
One key success story that evidences this is previous JTL apprentice, Joe Smithson, who undertook a four-year Modern Advanced Electrical Installation Apprenticeship at the age of 16. After completing his apprenticeship, Joe decided to upskill his existing knowledge and experience further through obtaining an ‘Approved Electrician’ status with The Joint Industry Board (JIB), a Higher National Certificate (HNC), a Higher National Diploma (HND) and a First Class honours degree in Electrical Engineering.
Joe, now 31, works as an Electrical and Instrumentation Maintenance Engineer at Lenzing Fibers Grimsby Ltd. where he is responsible managing planned and reactive maintenance to mitigate any safety hazards to the team working on the plant production site.
Joe Smithson said: “My apprenticeship with JTL was a crucial stepping stone towards my career as an engineer. The qualification is something that I would highly recommend to others who are looking to start their profession in a similar area, as it has led me to adopt the skills that have enabled me to work in a rewarding role that I am still able to progress in.”
Cathie Foster, Head of Marketing & Communications at JTL, added: “We believe in providing individuals with an all-encompassing learning experience that combines both practical and theoretical learning, ensuring our apprentices develop the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen field.
“The success stories of our JTL apprentices, such as Joe Smithson, highlight the effectiveness of the apprenticeship qualification in laying a strong foundation for individuals to embark on successful careers in their chosen sector.”
Individuals who are looking to start their career or upskill in their current role can access industry-relevant, free courses, advice and guidance through JTL’s online resource, Tool Box. The platform provides a wide-range of learning materials and bite-size digital courses to help enhance individuals’ continued professional development (CPD).
