Add My Company
An insightful interview with our newest apprentice, sharing her experiences on her course so far and her future aspirations as a Metal Fabricator.
At Croft, we recently welcomed Mia, a passionate and ambitious apprentice currently studying a Metal Fabrication apprenticeship at Wigan & Leigh College. Through this interview, we explored Mia’s experiences so far on the course, why she choose to do an apprenticeship, and her future aspirations in the trade. Looking ahead, during her apprenticeship, Mia will gain extensive experience in laser welding working with SLM (Selective Laser Melting) and laser cutting technology at Croft. As proud members of the Association of Industrial Laser Users (AILU), this is an essential skill.
Choosing Metal Fabrication
Rosa: “Why did you want to study metal fabrication?”
Mia: “I enjoy working hands-on, and I also enjoy seeing the progress of my work. When I get a job, it comes in on a job sheet, and I actually make it myself. I find it rewarding to see a project through from the beginning to the end.”
The Value of Apprenticeships
Rosa: “What are the benefits of studying an apprenticeship?”
Mia: “You don’t put yourself in debt or lose money. Instead, you’re actually working and learning the skills that you’ll use in your job role. For example, if you weren’t studying metal fabrication through an apprenticeship, you might not gain the same hands-on experience I’ve had.”
A 2022 report from UCAS highlighted a significant increase in interest in apprenticeships, with 40% of all UCAS undergraduate applicants considering apprenticeship roles. Since then, the numbers have continued to rise. A report published by the government for the 2023/24 academic year shows that enrolments in apprenticeships increased by 0.7%, from 337,140 in the previous year to 339,580.
https://www.ucas.com/advisers/guides-and-resources/adviser-news/news/new-report-highlights-soaring-demand-apprenticeships
Gaining Hands-On Experience
Rosa: “What work have you been conducting whilst at college and at work?”
Mia: “At college, we’ve been gaining hands-on experience in MIG welding and practicing metal fabrication by creating small toolboxes. We started by learning essential skills like bending and folding metal, then progressed into making full sized toolboxes. We’ve also gained experience in using a range of tools such as snips, while learning about health and safety throughout the process.
At work, the projects range from small items to larger ones, like cones (or ‘witches hats’) and tubes. These involve techniques such as rolling, grinding, and snipping. My focus at work is primarily on TIG welding, as all our welding tasks here are TIG-based.”
Rosa: “With Croft recently investing in hand-held welding laser technology, what are you most looking forward to about gaining experience in laser welding?”
Laser welding is a relatively new technology, which means there is still much to learn and the potential for future advancements. One major advantage I found compared to TIG welding is the reduced risk of material deformation or thermal damage—something that can be highly beneficial for certain products we manufacture. Additionally, an added benefit is its high precision and speed, resulting in a high-quality outcome. I look forward to gaining more experience in this area and discovering additional benefits it can provide.
Looking Ahead
Rosa: “What are your aspirations after finishing your apprenticeship?”
Mia: “My end goal is to eventually own my own business within the trade. Once I finish my apprenticeship, I might consider doing a degree apprenticeship to take it further. However, if I don’t go down that route, I’ll focus on building my skills and working my way up until I’m ready to start my own business.”
Key Takeaway
- A key benefit of an apprenticeship is that you gain knowledge and experience within the industry while also developing other skills at college, which you may not have the opportunity to focus on due to the processes more commonly used in the workplace.
- Seeing a product from start to finish helps in understanding all the different stages and how they connect. This is a key benefit of undertaking an apprenticeship, as it aids in development.
- While going to university has traditionally been the top choice for young people aiming to achieve their desired careers, apprenticeships are growing in popularity. With no debt from student loans, apprenticeships are increasingly becoming an attractive option for many young people.
Croft have recently become proud members of the Association of Industrial Laser Users (AILU). With three laser welders, a laser cutter, a series of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) and additive manufacturing machines, this membership marks the next step in helping us stay at the forefront of the technology. With this we are enabled to support apprentices like Mia develop their skills with this advanced equipment.
As a company, we look forward to welcoming more apprentices in the future, providing them with valuable workplace experience and helping them develop essential skills to pursue whatever career aspirations they may have. We actively encourage other companies to embrace apprenticeships as a powerful tool for developing talent, driving innovation, and supporting young people at the start of their career journey.
For more information on Mia’s Journey in Metal Fabrication as an apprentice at Croft talk to Croft Filters Ltd