Engineering apprentice flourishes at Produmax

Apprentice, Alex Johnson joined Produmax shortly after her A levels.

The quality engineering apprentice, who said she was not sure about what she wanted to do after high school, applied for their work experience programme to get insight into aerospace engineering.

After a successful week she carried on with the Shipley-based firm, taking on a work placement day every other week in the quality department.

Alex said that being able to do that boosted her confidence, while giving her the opportunity to learn some basic skills in a working environment.

Alex, who is hoping to train as a non-destructive engineer in the future, said that she finds the idea of structural damage and how to detect faults fascinating.

We caught up with her to talk about her experiences and where she’d like to progress to next.

What made you choose to do an apprenticeship?

I chose to complete an apprenticeship as a quality engineer at Produmax as the working environment suited me. The idea of learning and working is something I have always felt passionate about.The support that’s available is second to none and the opportunities at Produmax are endless.

What does your role entail?

Produmax has made my apprenticeship programme unique, giving me the opportunity to understand and gain knowledge on computerised maintenance management system (CMMs) and achieve vocational qualifications that are quality specific. I also wouldn’t be enjoying my apprenticeship programme if it wasn’t for the support Keighley College gives me. The courses that they have available give learner’s vital work based skills, especially in CNC machining and engineering theory.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

As a quality engineering apprentice, I really enjoy the daily challenges, as I learn something new every day. Being in a role where there is lots of customer interaction, having to learn the details of specifications and having knowledge of how to produce quality documents has really developed my technical skills.

What are your ambitions for the future?

In the future I would like to train as a non-destructive engineer, I find the idea of structural damage and how to detect faults fascinating.

What would you say to those looking to pursue an apprenticeship?

To those who are interested in apprenticeships, I would recommend applying for work experience programmes as these help you to narrow down your areas of interest and give you a chance to develop a long term relationship with a company. There are so many opportunities that apprenticeship programmes can offer you that may not be available at university and there is room to progress and build a career.