Nick's Story
Company Placement: Linkam
Sector: Mechanical Engineering
Nick Humphries, Mechanical Development Engineer
Linkam
I always knew I wanted to be an engineer. I have always enjoyed finding out how things work and how they are put together. When I left school I started looking at the different options available to me to get into engineering and the apprenticeship route seemed like the best fit.
Completing an apprenticeship allowed me to gain practical experience while also gaining qualifications. This combination helped me develop not only technical skills but also valuable workplace experience.
The experience I gained during my apprenticeship has played a huge role in allowing me to progress my career and take opportunities that may otherwise have taken much longer to achieve.
"Gaining my apprenticeship through SIGTA has been essential in getting to where I am now, the experience gained has allowed me to take a path which would normally take a lot longer to achieve."
Niks' Story
Once established within Pyser I was able to move up to the role of Junior Mechanical Design engineer within the Research and Development department whilst still completing my apprenticeship. This was ultimately the career path that I wanted to take. As part of the design team I was responsible for overseeing projects from start to finish. Hands on experience gave me a greater understanding of the importance of designing features in a way that makes manufacturing achievable – something that some of my university educated colleagues struggled with.
I currently work for a company called Linkam as a Mechanical Development Engineer within the Research and Development department. My role involves designing and testing the mechanical aspects of high precision test equipment for scientific research. Whilst completing my apprenticeship I also gained an HNC in manufacturing engineering at college.
Gaining my apprenticeship through SIGTA has been essential in getting to where I am now, the experience gained has allowed me to take a path which would normally take a lot longer to achieve. I have no doubt that if I were not introduced to the apprenticeship program that I would still be working as a toolmaker. Darryl’s advice over the years has been incredibly useful, it’s very refreshing to work with someone who has genuine industry experience, as well as a clear passion for engineering.
As well as my current job role I have also built an engineering workshop fitted with a four axis CNC milling machine, lathe and design facilities with the aim to starting my own company.
Nick
SIGTA is a not for profit organisation
“Working with schools, youth organisations and local employers to increase participation in apprenticeships, we are committed to promoting and delivering high quality training programmes.”
Alison Foxwell, CEO