At Elkins Construction, we’re committed to offering employment and training opportunities for local young people, and many of our apprentices have gone on to become full-time employees. For this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, we sat down with a couple of them to discuss how their apprenticeship kickstarted their construction careers, beginning with Charlie Harris.
Why did you want to do an apprenticeship?
I didn’t really like classroom learning in school and felt I learnt more through hands-on practical experience. Through my apprenticeship, I met lots of new people at college and in the work environment, some of whom became my good friends. Choosing an apprenticeship was, by far, the best decision I ever made.
What made you choose Elkins for your apprenticeship?
I liked the fact that at Elkins you feel like part of a big family. Everyone is really welcoming and ready and willing to help you, if you need it. Over the years that I’ve worked here, the bond I’ve developed with my peers has continued to grow stronger and the supportive work environment has helped me to develop and progress in my career.
What subject was your apprenticeship in?
I joined Elkins as an electrical apprentice. My time was split between college, where I learnt the theoretical side of being an electrician, and working on-site, putting into practice what I was learning in the classroom.
How long was your apprenticeship? What did you do once it finished?
My apprenticeship lasted roughly five years; it was delayed by Covid, which put things back a little. Once it was complete, I became a full-time Electrician at Elkins, working in the maintenance department.
In the seven years I’ve worked at Elkins, I’ve continued to undertake training to develop my skills further. I’m interested in health and safety work, so I asked to take a Portable Appliance Testing course. I’m now the company’s dedicated PAT tester, which means I have responsibility for ensuring the safety of all our equipment. I have also been put forward to take a Testing and Inspection course, which will allow me to sign off work through our governing electrical body, NICEIC.
How did your apprenticeship prepare you for your current role?
Being given responsibility over my own work as an electrical apprentice, allowed me to develop technical and practical skills, as well as leadership skills, which have helped me make decisions about how best to progress with specific tasks. It also taught me team-building skills, which have motivated me to strive for success as part of team.
What’s your favourite thing about working at Elkins?
The best thing about working at Elkins has been the amazing people I’ve met, who have helped me in many different ways.
What do you get up to outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my partner and exploring the world by going on cruises, I also enjoy playing golf and socialising with friends, whether that’s going to the pub or to play football. My favourite hobby is carp fishing.
Say hello to Charlie on our social media channels – you can find us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. Keep up to date with all our latest news here.
