Alex Kelly – Case Study
Harland Machine Systems
After leaving school in June 2012 I began studying Business Studies at College whilst working part time in a retail position at Sainsbury’s. I realised that the course wasn’t for me and didn’t want to continue a career in retail. I felt an engineering Apprenticeship would be a better route for me as I preferred to learn in a work based environment and would be a great stepping stone into a career in engineering. STEGTA enrolled me on the NEET Programme, this would give me the chance to gain some ‘hands on’ experience in the workshop by completing a Level 1 Hand Fitting Unit and also provide me with some support to enhance my CV and interview technique.
Whilst on the programme, I was able develop my knowledge in the basic principles of hand fitting skills such as drilling, filing, chain drilling and sawing. I’ve also produced some ‘T and U pieces’ using mild steel, brass and aluminium. I gained vital experience in working safely and received one on one training with a STEGTA Training Officer at their training centre based in Wellacre Academy in Flixton.
As I reached the final stages of the NEET programme, STEGTA then informed me they had a vacancy at a local company, Harland Machine Systems Ltd who were looking for an Apprentice Fitter – Wiremen. I attended an interview and showed them the work I had produced as part of the course and the company offered me a trial. Following the trial I was offered the position and began employment in September 2013.
I feel the NEET programme gave me a great insight into engineering and gave me more confidence to pursue an Apprenticeship in this field. I am currently working towards a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering and attend Trafford College on day release to study BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Operations and Maintenance Engineering.
Pictured above: Louise O’Toole STEGTA Business Development Officer presenting Alex with £100 in Trafford Centre vouchers upon successfully completing the NEET Programme. Also pictured Michael Whiteley Production Manager at Harland Machine Systems Ltd and Ian Parker, STEGTA Business Development Manager