Overview
We caught up with Harrison to find out more about his career journey so far, and why he would recommend an Apprenticeship to others starting out in the industry.
Education journey
Hi Harrison! Tell us a little bit about your education journey so far?
During my education journey at Orange Solutions Ltd, I have been able to be part of a variety of different projects including offshore renewable energy, the electricity transmission industry, tunnel safety systems, marine, oil and gas and industrial sites. This allows me to keep gathering more information and to learn alongside experienced engineers who can support me in expanding my knowledge.
I’m currently working on a massive offshore wind project which is always having changes made to it. This requires a lot of communication from everyone one involved, especially between the clients and our engineers.
As well as my work, I have been attending North Trafford College once a week to achieve a Degree in Electrical Engineering.
Everything I’ve been working on both at work and in college has been directly contributing to my final assessment. Each task, project, and assignment has played a role in building the skills and knowledge needed to successfully complete the end-of-point evaluation. This on-going experience has been helping me to refine my skills, making sure I’m prepared and capable for the assessment ahead.
I am fully confident in my abilities to continue making significant progress towards achieving my career and educational goals with the support and opportunities provided by OSL. With the resources available and my dedication, I believe I can reach new milestones in both my professional journey and academic development.
Why did you choose a Degree Apprenticeship to further your education?
I chose to do a Degree Apprenticeship in Electrical Engineering at North Trafford College because it is a great way to learn whilst working towards and gaining qualifications.
Currently I am in my second year at the College doing a level 3 NVQ Extended Diploma in Engineering. This is extending my knowledge in Electrical Engineering more and more each week.
What have you enjoyed most over so far?
Over the past 2 and a half years, I have enjoyed being able to take more responsibility in the workshop and on-site and I am producing higher quality work with each new project we start. Going back to sites that I have been working on in the past is a good way for me to see the work that I contributed too and see how much I have progressed. This is a reminder of the opportunity I have to develop my career in my line of work.
What motivates you in your work?
Having a good team around me on-site and in the workshop motivates me to work to the best of my ability. It’s like having a second family to look out for you if I require any help!
What advice would you give someone looking to start an apprenticeship?
Starting an Apprenticeship is a great way to gain hands on experience and knowledge.
Always make sure you understand what the role entails and what qualifications you can get throughout the apprenticeship and what career paths you can go down.
Apprenticeships are all about learning on the job, so you want to come in with a positive mindset to learn and ask questions to better understand what it is you need to do, and don’t be scared to make mistakes and learn from them.
It is important to build relationships with your mentor, coworkers, and others in the industry. It could open doors to more opportunities in the future.
What are your career aspirations for the next 5 years?
In the next five years I’d like to have finished my level 3 NVQ and complete my HNC (Higher National Certificate) and my HND ( Higher National Diploma) and then be a fully qualified Electrical Engineer.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
In my spare time outside of work I like to catch up with family and friends, I also play football for a 5 aside team once a week, and any chance I get I attend Old Trafford to watch my football team Manchester United even though they have been rubbish for the last decade!
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