"I am driven by seeing apprentices develop their knowledge, skills and behaviours at PETA and within the workplace, and for them to become the engineering workforce of the future."
What led you to work for PETA?
I originally started my career in engineering at British Rail Engineering Ltd, at the Eastleigh works, as a Metal Machinist and moved to Ceramic Machining at another company.
Since then, I have gained a wealth of experience in other industries and job roles from being a Senior Accounts Clerk, Stock Controller, Warehouse & Distribution Manager, Trainer, Forklift Driver, Assessor and Lean Manufacturing Engineer.
I discovered not only did I have the patience to train others, but also enjoyed “Putting something back” into the industries I have worked in such as Aero, Marine, Boat Building, Mechanical & Electrical Engineering & Logistics. It gives you a sense of that you are passing something on.
What is your role at PETA and what drives you to do what you do?
I am a L&D coach in Engineering and also deliver Business Improvement Techniques to apprentices. I am driven by seeing apprentices develop their knowledge, skills and behaviours at PETA and within the workplace, and for them to become the engineering workforce of the future.
I like seeing the apprentices develop into mature students, even to the point of educating others twice their age within their workplace.
Changing the culture of the British workforce so that they do care about their employer’s sustainability, quality and reputation instead of the old culture of “It’s not my job”.
What knowledge and experience do you draw upon for your role?
I have knowledge & experience of life and the skills I have attained over the years I can draw upon to educate apprentices on various aspects of education and workplace environments.
I have others within PETA who are experts in their fields too that I can turn to.
Because of my passion for continuous improvement, I draw upon my 10 years of teaching this subject to educate others on how they can improve their logical thinking, processing and make their lives or tasks easier to complete.
How do you approach your role on a day-to-day basis? What skills are required?
Patience is paramount, as the role can be fast-paced at times. Prioritising is also up there with patience and the ability to adapt to situations that were not expected.
Calmness, it is important to step away from negative situations and from becoming involved. Better to gather your own thoughts and turn the negative into a positive by looking for solutions.
Respect; I would like to think I give the apprentice respect and do not make them feel I am better than them. These are apprentices, young adults and not children and we need to remember this.
What is your teaching style?
Engage the learners and avoid over teaching. Bring in humour and teach at a pace that promotes understanding.
What are you passionate about outside of work?
Waste! As in Lean, I hate waste. This could be wasting time, food, effort, double handling or money spent on pretty street lampposts/lights when the money could be better utilised elsewhere, (repairing pavements and roads)…and I am passionate about football.
What are your personal values, and what is important to you?
To help anyone I can, love thy neighbour, care in the community and trust/belief.
To be trusted to do something to me is the ultimate compliment to someone, and gives them worth/value and belief that they can succeed.