National Apprenticeship Week is an annual celebration of apprenticeships, bringing together employers, apprentices and training providers across the UK to highlight the positive impact that apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
To mark the occasion, we caught up with our former apprentice and now Production Engineer, Anthony Jackman, to celebrate his career journey as part of the British Engines Apprenticeship Scheme.
Anthony joined British Engines company, BEL Valves, in 2001 where he completed his Mechanical apprenticeship, before moving to Tyne Pressure Testing in 2021.
What attracted you to an apprenticeship?
Like many colleagues, I have a family link to British Engines as my dad (David Jackman) worked here for about 37 years. I came to British Engines for my work experience during school and met with the team in charge of the apprentice training. I had little knowledge of the engineering world, but they showed me the training school and was given a taste of what skills I’d be able to develop.
What was your day-to-day like as an apprentice?
In my first year, training school felt like an extension of further education, with a lot of classroom-based theory, before moving more towards hands-on, on-the-job training. We rotated between different sections each term, focusing on key engineering disciplines such as drawing, lathes, milling, electrical, welding and fitting.
I was amazed by just how precise the engineering world is. I remember being trained to use inspection equipment and even measuring the thickness of paper. We were then challenged to turn and mill components to extremely tight tolerances using those new skills, which didn’t always go to plan!
From my second to fourth year at BEL Valves, I worked as a Mechanical Fitter, which I’d describe as an excellent apprenticeship experience. I began in the main fitting section alongside two highly experienced fitters, where I was constantly challenged and quickly learned that there is always something productive to be doing.
I then moved into the clean room, where many of the more complex valves were built. Assembly precision and cleanliness were critical, and working alongside experienced fitters helped me develop a much deeper understanding of valve builds.
Once I had built a solid understanding of valve designs and sealing arrangements, I progressed into testing. I carried out valve testing in line with procedures and recorded results on official test documentation before later moving into the R&D team, where I was able to apply the assembly and testing skills I had developed.
What achievements or qualifications are you most proud of?
Achieving my HNC in Manufacturing Technologies was a huge personal highlight for me. I’m also very proud to have received Apprentice of the Year in years two and three, as well as achieving the HT Lamb Award, which was a real honour as it is one of the most prestigious awards within the Group, celebrating excellence, dedication, and innovation.
How do you feel your apprenticeship has set you up for long-term success?
Working alongside employees with a wealth of experience at BEL Valves set high standards and strong principles for me from an early stage, which I still try to maintain today. The apprenticeship gave me the mindset that there is always something new to learn, and that continuous development is key to long-term success.
What role are you in now and what does it involve?
I’m currently a Production Engineer at Tyne Pressure Testing. My role involves providing the team with methodology guidance and identifying the tooling required for assembly and testing activities.
Since moving to Tyne Pressure Testing in 2021, I’ve continued to develop my assembly and testing knowledge, applying my experience across a wider range of products.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship at British Engines?
Be willing to challenge yourself and take every opportunity to learn as much as you can. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, challenge existing processes and look for ways to improve them, that’s how you really develop and stand out.
What would you say to someone who’s unsure if an apprenticeship is right for them?
There are far more options available now in terms of apprenticeship roles. If you’re unsure whether a traditional, shop floor-based environment is right for you, there are likely other pathways that would suit your strengths and interests. Apprenticeships today offer a wide range of opportunities across different areas of the business.
Would you recommend the British Engines Apprenticeship Scheme?
Yes, absolutely. I’m very impressed with how the current programmes are run and the wider range of training and engineering disciplines now on offer. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and the continued support since completing my apprenticeship. I continue to work hard to develop myself, while also contributing to the growth and improvement of the companies I work for.
Thank you for chatting with us Anthony!
Interested in an apprenticeship? Find out more about our careers and keep an eye out for future apprenticeship opportunities when the scheme opens later this year.