Building A Future Through Apprenticeships

Taking place this year between 10^th – 15^th February, National Apprenticeship Week provides an opportunity to celebrate the skills and achievements of apprentices around the country, and the positive impact that they make not just to the businesses that they work with, but also to their local communities and the wider economy.  Apprenticeships provide a unique opportunity for those undertaking them to gain hands-on experience while continuing their education.  We spoke to Thomas, one of our apprentices at Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery, to find out his experiences of working on this top tier COMAH site.  As a Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technician Apprentice, Thomas is not only mastering his craft but also contributing to a sustainable future in the energy sector….

A Day In The Life Of An Apprentice

For Thomas, being an apprentice is the perfect balance between working in a professional environment and pursuing further qualifications.  “It is the best way to get a taste of the working environment and studying an extra qualification,” he explains.  “You learn something new every single day, sometimes without even realising it.”  This dynamic approach allows apprentices to grow both personally and professionally, providing a well-rounded foundation for a successful career.

Why Choose An Apprenticeship?

After completing college, Thomas decided that an apprenticeship was the most logical next step. “I chose the apprenticeship route because it was the best way to gain industry experience and develop new and existing skills,” he says.  One of the standout benefits for Thomas is learning directly from industry professionals.  This mentorship provides invaluable insights and expertise that textbooks can’t always offer.  In addition to on-the-job training, he is supported with additional external courses, including three NDT certifications and a Higher National Certificate (HNC).

Taking Pride In Being A Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery Apprentice

Working at Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery carries significant meaning for Thomas.  “It feels important to be a Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery Apprentice because the site has an experienced and older population, as does the industry as a whole.  It’s vital that a new generation of workers is trained correctly to carry on the work and keep the site continuing for generations to come,” he reflects.

Contributing To A Sustainable Energy Future

One of the most rewarding aspects of Thomas’ apprenticeship is the opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future. “Contributing to the vision of a next generation refinery, and playing a role in transitioning towards that, is extremely rewarding,” he says.  As the UK’s energy sector evolves, Thomas takes pride in being part of a site that is working towards a low-carbon future.  “As my career develops, it’s exciting to be part of the development of a site that will lead to a low-carbon contribution to the UK energy mix for many years to come.”

Inspiring The Next Generation

Thomas’ journey is a testament to the value of apprenticeships.  By combining education with practical experience, he is not only advancing his own career, but also playing a crucial role in shaping the future of the energy industry from the very beginning of his career.  For those considering an apprenticeship, Thomas’ story serves as an inspiring example of what’s possible when you choose to learn, grow, and contribute to a better tomorrow.