Erin is currently studying an Engineering Operative Level 3 apprenticeship at CWA after having completed her Level 2 qualification. She spends 4 days a week with her employer where she learns hands on with practical work and comes into college one day to learn the theory-based element of her course.

For Erin, an apprenticeship is an excellent way of learning, she said

“My apprenticeship has given me the chance to work with people who are interested in the same career as me, and also people that have worked in the industry for years, this means that I get the chance to work alongside skilled people everyday. After completing my apprenticeship I will have the skills and confidence, ready for a full-time job.”

A typical day for Erin involves shadowing her mentor, learning how to set up a job on a machine, running and checking the job before making any adjustments. She also gets the opportunities to learn how to understand complex drawings and programs.

After her apprenticeship Erin plans to become a production engineer or continue her education by studying a Level 4 Engineering Machinist course