Jake joined Tyne Pressure Testing in November 2022 as a Technical Support Apprentice working in both the office and testing facility.
As Jake goes into his final year of completing a Level 3 Advanced Machining Engineering Diploma as well as a HNC qualification, we caught up with him to find out more about his engineering apprenticeship…
What is your role and when did you join the British Engines Group?
I joined Tyne Pressure Testing in November 2022 as a Technical Support Apprentice. My role involves working independently and assisting the engineers in setting up, monitoring and reporting on various tests. The tests range from hyperbaric tests to extreme temperature tests, which are crucial to ensure the quality and safety of our customer’s products.
How did you find out about the British Engines Apprenticeship Scheme and what about it appealed to you?
I had been searching for apprenticeships for a while and contacted TDR Training, the training provider for the British Engines Apprenticeship, who suggested I apply. When I researched the company, I was impressed by the long-term careers people have here and the clear opportunities for progression.
Unlike other apprenticeships where you can feel like just a number, the British Engines scheme is very hands-on, which is exactly what I wanted.
What is a typical day in your role?
A typical day always starts with the morning meeting, where we discuss jobs scheduled for the day and any upcoming projects for later in the week. If there’s a job in the testing facility, I’ll set it up and monitor the test to ensure the pressure is steady. Depending on the length of the test, I may head back to the office to complete test sheets and client reports.
Some days, I organise and carry out tests independently, while on others I may assist the technicians with complex setups or help out if they’re busy.
Do you spend most of your time in the office or in the testing facility?
It’s a bit of both, which I really enjoy. In the testing facility, I’m involved in the entire testing process, however I also need to spend time in the office planning tests and working on standard operating procedures (SOPs), a set of step-by-step instructions outlining how each test is performed.
How would your colleagues describe you?
I’d hope they’d say I’m hardworking! If something needs to be done, I’ll take the initiative to do it, rather than leaving it for someone else.
Where does your motivation come from?
I always aim to do my best at everything. I get a great sense of achievement in completing a project, especially when it involves careful planning, seeing everything come together is rewarding and motivates me.
Is there anybody that inspired you to go into engineering?
My Dad has always been my inspiration. He’s worked in engineering ever since I was young, so it was something I was naturally drawn to.
After spending a year at Northumbria University studying Electrical Engineering, I realised it wasn’t for me. I wasn’t enjoying it, which made it harder for me to motivate myself. My Dad encouraged me to consider an apprenticeship, to give me practical experience alongside the theoretical learning.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy skateboarding, weightlifting and kickboxing. They’re a bit on the extreme side, but I don’t like to feel boring.
What’s your favourite part of your apprenticeship?
The progression opportunities and the trust I’ve been given. My line manager, Paul, has been incredibly supportive from the start. Even early on in my apprenticeship he trusted me to take responsibility and valued my input on how to approach a test. He has provided a supportive environment where I always felt comfortable to ask a question when I wasn’t sure about something.
What is the most challenging thing about your apprenticeship?
Balancing my HNC studies with work has been challenging. It can be tough to find the motivation to study after a full day at work. I want to see it through, so I find a way to push on.
What led you to do a HNC?
I completed my BTEC quite comfortably and I wanted to take the next step and push myself further. Paul and I discussed my options when I joined, and progressing to a HNC felt like a natural progression to develop my skills.
Do you have any career highlights that stand out?
One of the most memorable projects I’ve been involved with was testing a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) robotic arm to subsea water depths of 4,000m. The whole test from start to finish was really interesting, as well as having the opportunity to consider how it could be used in real-world applications.
What are your short term and long term plans for your role and career?
In the short term, my focus is completing my HNC. Long term, I’d like to move into a management role, I feel I can communicate effectively with both factory and management colleagues, which would help me in a managerial position.
Do you enjoy working at Tyne Pressure Testing?
Definitely! The team here are great. Everyone pulls together and collaborates to find the best approach for each project.
What opportunities has British Engines provided to enhance your career?
Beyond my HNC, one of the standout opportunities was the Brathay Trip to the Lake District. It was an amazing experience that taught me communication techniques and pushed me out of my comfort zone. The skills I learnt are directly applicable to work, especially tackling unfamiliar challenges.
What would you say to someone considering an apprenticeship with British Engines?
I’d say go for it, even if you’re a bit older, you’ve got nothing to lose. I’ve even recommended the scheme to a friend as it offers much more in career progression than other apprenticeships I’ve seen.
Thank you for talking to us Jake, we wish you the best for your apprenticeship and HNC!
Find out more about an apprenticeship with the British Engines Group.