NAME, AGE AND JOB ROLE
Daniel Blake, 22, Mechanical Engineering Apprentice
WHICH TYPE OF APPRENTICESHIP ARE YOU DOING OR HAVE YOU COMPLETED?
EAL Level 4 NVQ Extended Diploma in Engineering Manufacture
WHO DO YOU WORK FOR AND WHAT DO THEY DO?
I work for a company called Trak Rap, who manufacture Stretch Wrap Machinery, an alternate solution to shrink wrap machinery.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BECOME AN APPRENTICE?
I chose to become an apprentice due to the dual work/education route, where I gained practical work experience, whilst simultaneously gaining academic qualifications.
WHAT DOES YOUR DAY IN YOUR WORK LIFE INVOLVE?
My working day consists of a number of different activities and duties. Depending on the demand of the business, and the work schedule for that week, I could be carrying out a number of jobs. These could be anything from building machine assemblies such as conveyor systems, carrying out development work into new ideas and projects, upgrading existing machines to newer generations, or carrying out workshop duties such as risk assessments, organisation of stock, or creating pack samples for potential customers.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY AND WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING AN APPRENTICE?
Being an apprentice has its advantages for a number of reasons. Getting a good income whilst learning new skills all alongside progressing through the qualifications I need is one of the biggest advantages. The majority of my friends went to university and spent most of their time counting pennies, but not me. I was able to afford my own car, be able to do any activity I wanted, and still save for the future. I will end up just as qualified as any of them, with years of practical work experience to add to my CV.
WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER PLANS AND WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN 5 YEARS’ TIME?
Once I have gained a degree in Mechanical Engineering, I would like to apply my skills and knowledge to help expand the company which employs me. At the moment, we are only a relatively small company, however in 5 years’ time that could have completely changed, so having the experience and knowledge to make revolutionary innovations will help me to achieve my full potential within the business.
WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT?
Bungee Jumping without hesitating at the top.
GIVE US ONE FUN FACT ABOUT YOURSELF!
I regularly go climbing indoors, and have recently made the jump to outdoors. Once I have collected more of the equipment I will be continuing my outdoor adventures on a more regular basis.
WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT BECOMING AN APPRENTICE?
Carry out research into the role you want to go into. Get some experience in that subject if possible, whether through work experience or taking up a similar hobby. This will give you a good base when starting your new job.
WHAT SCHOOL DID YOU ATTEND
St Peters RCHS
Winstanley College
Wigan & Leigh College