Joe Francis, Workshop Manager, started his career at IWS M&E as an Engineering Maintenance Apprentice in September 2005. The four-year apprenticeship has since turned into a 20-year career with the business as Joe reaped the benefits of his hard work. Joe is a strong advocate for the apprenticeship scheme and currently manages a group of apprentices. Here he tells his story.
“My apprenticeship started with a year of full-time study at Tyseley College. The following three years we worked with the fitters full time and went to college only one day a week. We were paired up with the fitters and shadowed them until we were trusted to go off on our own. This kick started my confidence to work alone and my career as a fitter.
“I soon moved on to a lead fitter role, and I was trusted with what was thrown at me. Then I ended up as workshop supervisor and I did that for three years before I was promoted to workshop manager.
“Other than the obvious technical skills that I learnt, being an apprentice built some independence in me. I was able to have the self-confidence and belief that I could do the work that they were expecting of me. The managers see a lot more than what you think you are capable of. They have the confidence and belief that you can do what they’re asking.
“As a manager, I see my apprentices every day. I remember how intimidating it was to speak to management so I try to be approachable and have normal conversations as often as we can. I try to be there and get them involved in jobs, as well as check-in with them and make sure they understand.
“From a business point of view, we’re so heavily reliant on bringing keen, skilled apprentices through. It’s very difficult to find skilled labour in what we do. If you manage to get an apprentice who is willing to learn and willing to work, it’s a great opportunity for growth. Not everyone wants to come out of school and go to college, apprenticeships are a massive opportunity to be able to earn money while learning and create a real career path. My supervisor, Ollie, is apprentice-trained and we have three mechanical fitters who are apprentice-trained.
“I remember when I was an apprentice, I went on a distance job with the workshop manager at the time and he asked me and another apprentice separately ‘where do you see yourself?’. The other apprentice said, ‘I want to do your job’ and me, with slightly lower aspirations, said ‘I just want to be a fitter.’ I kicked myself afterwards and thought I should have said more and aimed higher, but I suppose it all works out in the end!”
Interested in an apprenticeship? We currently have no opportunities available but please keep an eye on our careers page which we keep updated with our latest vacancies
