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National Apprenticeship Week 2025 – Meet Our Apprentices
Meet Tom.
Level 3 Electrician – Springfields, Preston
“It is a great choice for someone that may learn better through doing (like myself) rather than in a classroom”
This week is National Apprenticeship Week, a week-long celebration that brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy. To mark the occasion, we spoke with Tom Nicholson to talk about his experiences and share what he has learned during his apprenticeship.
When did you join Shepley Engineers?
I joined Shepley originally on decommissioning in November 2020 but started my apprenticeship in 2022.
What made you choose an apprenticeship?
I chose an apprenticeship because It gives me practical work experience whilst also improving my knowledge academically. I also knew Shepley’s had a good reputation for apprenticeships so I thought it was a good opportunity to take
What does a typical day in your job involve?
As an apprentice electrician, my typical day to day jobs involve various tasks. Such as, taking measurements to then cut cable tray, trunking and basket tray to size ready to fix to a wall and tie cables too. I also have to strip various cables ready to connect up.
How have you progressed since joining Shepley?
Through the last few years working here I’ve gained lots of different skills and gathered a lot of experience. Since starting here I’ve gained people skills and become a lot more confident in my work
What are your career aspirations?
Id like to hopefully work my way up further with the company and at the same time keep expanding my knowledge and experience by continuing to learn.
What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship? Has anything surprised you?
I enjoy how I’m learning different skills with the different jobs on site we do. It is also a change from a classroom so you get a real hands on experience. Furthermore, I work with a team of people and the Laugh we have between each other creates a good working environment to be in.
What you say to somebody considering an apprenticeship?
I’d say go for it, an apprenticeship is a great way of learning whilst having a hands on experience. You get to build various skills in real time, meet new people and get paid whilst doing it. It is also a great choice for someone that may learn better through doing (like myself) rather than staying in a classroom. Finally, apprenticeships often lead to full time roles with the company or give you great starting foundations to the start of your career