Summary: Follow the journey of our Apprentice of the Year 2025, as he develops his skills, grows in confidence, and makes a real impact within his organisation.
Connor Luke | PEI Genesis | Business Administration Level 3
What led you to start your apprenticeship?
I wanted to build real, practical skills that could open doors. I’ve always been organised, focused, and good under pressure. But I knew that in order to move forward, I needed more than just potential, I needed training, experience, and a qualification that meant something.
The Business Administration apprenticeship gave me the chance to work while learning, to understand how a business runs from the inside, and to become someone people can rely on to get things done.
Please tell us your current job title and what a typical day for you would involve?
Internal Applications Engineer:
- Provide telephone and field based technical & application support for the PEI sales force, manufacturer’s representatives & customers throughout Europe.
- Advise customers & sales representatives on the correct product for their application, including selection, technical support & application support. Be their trusted advisor
- Train internal and external sales & support staff on new and existing product lines/capabilities offered by PEI
- Work with suppliers on technical enquiries from PEI customers.
- Track leads & opportunities resulting from technical support calls
- Interface between PEI’s customers & the engineering and Product Management groups. Screen potential projects & help qualify them for follow up.
- Support launches of new external product lines and new products developed by PEI
- Provide training and customer support on these new offerings
Tell us about your experience as an apprentice...
Challenging at times, but worth it. It’s one thing to learn theory in a classroom, it’s another to apply it in the real world. I’ve had to adapt and step out of my comfort zone more than once. I’ve also gained confidence, learned how to manage my time better, communicate clearer, and support a team more effectively.
What did you enjoy most about doing an apprenticeship?
I liked being part of a team where I can contribute and learn from others without the pressure of jumping in blind. It’s a chance to grow at a steady pace and build skills that actually matter in the workplace.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I picture myself stepping into greater roles, leading important projects, and getting things done with confidence. And perhaps quietly building the foundation for something bigger in the future.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
Don’t skip over the small tasks, that's where you build real skills. Ask questions and don’t be afraid to mess up.
How has an apprenticeship helped you progress within your role and company?
The apprenticeship has really helped me step up in my role at PEI-Genesis. It gave me the chance to deepen my technical skills while understanding the bigger picture of how the company operates.