First Year Engineering Apprenticeship: What Our Apprentices Learned

An engineering apprenticeship is a major step into the world of work.

For Tom, Charlie, Alfie and Reece, the past 12 months have been about learning practical skills, building confidence and becoming part of the team at Hutchinson.

We spoke to them about what they have learned, their proudest moments and the advice they would give to anyone considering an apprenticeship.

Why Choose an Engineering Apprenticeship?

For Tom, the opportunity to learn through practical experience was one of the main reasons he chose an apprenticeship.

“I liked the idea of learning hands-on instead of sitting in a classroom. I feel like I take in more information when I’m actually doing something.”

He had always enjoyed making things, so welding and fabrication felt like a natural career choice.

Tom had also heard positive things about the training and support available to apprentices at Hutchinson.

Learning the Fundamentals

During their first year engineering apprenticeship, the group spent time learning the foundations of welding and fabrication through the Creighton Hutchinson Academy.

They practised different welding techniques, worked with plate and developed the consistency needed to meet industry standards.

For Charlie, passing his welding coding was one of the biggest achievements of the year.

“Passing my welding coding was probably my proudest moment. After putting in all that work, it was great to know I was ready to do proper welding work.”

Alfie also chose passing his coding as the highlight of his first year.

“Passing my coding was my proudest moment because you spend months practising for it. When you finally pass, you feel like you can really contribute.”

Turning Skills Into Finished Products

The apprentices also had the chance to put their new skills into practice through hands-on projects.

For Reece, making a fire pit from start to finish was a standout moment.

“My proudest moment was making the fire pit from scratch. It felt great to stand back and see something I’d made with my own hands.”

Projects like this help apprentices understand how an idea moves from a drawing to a finished product.

They also build confidence, independence and problem-solving skills.

Gaining Experience Across the Business

An engineering apprenticeship at Hutchinson involves more than completing the same task every day.

The apprentices have gained experience across different areas of the business and worked with a range of tools, machinery and processes.

Charlie said:

“You get to do lots of different things. You’re not coming in and doing the same job every day.”

Alongside welding and fabrication, the apprentices have developed communication skills and learned how to use equipment including the saw, tube laser and milling machine.

This variety helps them understand how different departments work together while discovering where their own strengths and interests lie.

Support Throughout the First Year

Starting an apprenticeship can be a big change from school, but the apprentices have been supported by experienced supervisors and colleagues from their first day.

Alfie explained:

“There’s a lot of support. You can ask someone for help and they’ll take the time to show you what to do.”

This guidance allows apprentices to ask questions, learn safely and gradually take on more responsibility as their skills develop.

Advice for Future Apprentices

The apprentices agreed that a positive attitude and willingness to learn are important.

Alfie’s advice is to listen carefully, take on board the guidance you receive and finish the work you start.

Reece would encourage anyone interested in practical learning to consider an apprenticeship.

“It’s a good opportunity to learn on the job and develop your skills.”

An apprenticeship gives young people the chance to gain qualifications, workplace experience and practical knowledge at the same time.

Looking Ahead After a First Year Engineering Apprenticeship

In just one year, Tom, Charlie, Alfie and Reece have gained valuable skills, passed important assessments and contributed to real work across the business.

Their first year engineering apprenticeship has given them a strong foundation for the next stage of their development.

Through the Creighton Hutchinson Academy, we are proud to support the next generation of engineers as they build their skills and begin long-term careers in the industry.

Congratulations to Tom, Charlie, Alfie and Reece on completing their first year.

We look forward to seeing what they achieve next.

Interested in Applying for an Apprenticeship at Hutchinson?

An apprenticeship at Hutchinson gives you the opportunity to learn on the job, develop practical engineering skills and gain valuable experience with support from an experienced team.

Whether you are interested in welding, fabrication or design, the Creighton Hutchinson Academy could be the first step towards a long-term career.

Keep an eye on our careers page for future apprenticeship opportunities, or get in touch with our HR team to learn more.