Why choose an apprenticeship?

How Billy Kick-Started his Network Engineering Career

Summary: Discover how school leaver, Billy, worked his way up the career ladder to become a Network Engineering Apprentice working for a local school in Cowplain.

What made you choose an apprenticeship?

When I left school, I had an interest in anything to do with technology, but I did not want to get into debt. An apprenticeship really appealed to me because I knew I would be paid to gain an industry-recognised qualification.

I started out with a Level 3 Infrastructure Technician apprenticeship and now I am nearing the end of my Level 4 Network Engineer apprenticeship.

What’s the best part of your job and being an apprentice?

I love that by implementing modern IT solutions I can save my employer thousands of pounds. I love being able to use my skills which I developed throughout my apprenticeship to make a big difference to a business. 

My favourite thing about being an apprentice is getting your qualifications whilst earning a wage and knowing that you will have a huge advantage when advancing your career after the apprenticeship. 

Would you recommend apprenticeships and if so why?

Absolutely. Schools tend to push colleges and universities as the number one career route, however I strongly disagree. With an apprenticeship you earn whilst you learn, gain valuable working experience and come out the end of your studies with an industry-recognised qualification. 

The learning process involves developing a broad skill set that will benefit you during and after your apprenticeship. You are gaining qualifications that will give you an immense advantage when looking to progress in the next step of your career.