National Apprenticeship Week is a time to recognise the vital role apprentices play in UK industry, and at G W Martin, apprentices are right at the heart of our future.
As a precision engineering business built on quality, skill and innovation, we see apprenticeships as more than training. They’re about developing the next generation of highly capable engineers who understand our standards, processes and commitment to excellence from day one.
To mark National Apprenticeship Week, we spoke to some of our apprentices about their journeys, what they’ve learned so far and where they hope their careers will take them.
Meet our apprentices
Josh Fitall – Machinist Apprentice (Level 3 City & Guilds Machining Diploma)
What made you choose an apprenticeship instead of another route (e.g. college, university)?
“I went to college and found it hard to study from books, so I chose to be an apprentice because it’s more hands-on and you get to learn from people who have been in the industry a lot longer than you.”
What does a typical day look like for you?
“Day-to-day, I’m often operating CNC machines in the factory, while also being shown new processes and skills. There’s always something different to pick up, which keeps it interesting.”
What skills have you learned so far that you didn’t expect?
“One of the highlights for me has been learning how to operate and set different machines, as well as understanding the wide range of tools we use and what each one is for.”
What’s been your proudest moment so far?
“Passing my functional skills, engineering maths and health and safety exams was a big moment for me and made me feel like I’m really progressing.”
What is the best thing about your apprenticeship?
“The range of skills I’m gaining and the qualifications I’ll come away with. It feels like I’m building something solid for my future.”
What are your career goals after completing your apprenticeship?
“I’d like to become a programmer in the future and continue into higher education to develop my skills even further.”
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others? If so, why?
“Yes – apprenticeships are more interactive than traditional college pathways. It’s easier to learn when you’re actually doing the job, and you can still gain high-level qualifications at the same time.”
Ray Reiman – Level 3 Machining Technician Apprentice
What made you choose an apprenticeship instead of another route (e.g. college, university)?
“I’m a kinaesthetic learner, so hands-on experience suits me much better. Being in a real workplace has helped me get used to the work environment and understand how the industry really operates.”
What does a typical day look like for you?
“My days involve running and operating CNC lathes, inspecting parts, carrying out basic machine maintenance and generally learning the ins and outs of the industry as I go.”
What skills have you learned so far that you didn’t expect?
“Patience, resilience and adaptability.”
What’s been your proudest moment so far?
“Being involved in the production of high-spec parts for different applications has been a proud moment. It’s rewarding to know the work we do really matters.”
What is the best thing about your apprenticeship?
“The opportunity to learn from highly skilled engineers every day. There’s always something new to take in.”
What are your career goals after completing your apprenticeship?
“My goal is to become a versatile engineer and an important asset to the company.”
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others? If so, why?
“Yes. It gives young people the chance to gain real knowledge and experience in key trades that school or college alone can’t fully provide.”
Michael Ireland – Apprentice Operator/Setter
What made you choose an apprenticeship instead of another route (e.g. college, university)?
“I chose to go down an apprenticeship route because I believe hands-on experience to gain qualifications in a trade is more stable than a degree.”
What does a typical day look like for you?
“A typical day is usually busy and interesting. I’m learning new things all the time, which keeps me motivated.”
What skills have you learned so far that you didn’t expect?
“I’ve definitely improved my timekeeping skills. Getting up earlier for work has helped me become more disciplined and organised.”
What’s been your proudest moment so far?
“Completing my first machine setup was a big achievement for me and gave me a real confidence boost.”
What is the best thing about your apprenticeship?
“Getting hands-on with different types of machinery and tools. There’s so much variety, which makes the job enjoyable.”
What are your career goals after completing your apprenticeship?
“I’d like to learn how to programme and develop my knowledge of different coding languages in the future.”
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others? If so, why?
“Yes. Trades will always be needed, so once you obtain qualifications in your chosen field, you have something to fall back on for life.”
The value of apprentices to G W Martin
At G W Martin, apprentices are seen as an investment in the long-term future of both us and the wider manufacturing industry.
“Apprentices are not just learners, they’re an investment in the future of our business. Taking on apprentices allows us to develop skilled engineers who understand our standards, our processes and our commitment to quality from day one. By training people in-house, we build a workforce that is loyal, adaptable and fully aligned with the way we work, while also strengthening the long-term sustainability of the company and the wider manufacturing industry.
A good apprentice brings more than technical potential. The most successful apprentices show a strong work ethic, reliability and a genuine desire to learn. Curiosity, attention to detail and pride in producing high-quality work are just as important as academic ability. With the right attitude and support, apprentices quickly become valued team members who contribute fresh ideas, develop specialist skills and grow into the next generation of skilled engineers at G W Martin.”
— Stephen Dixon, Operations Manager
Why apprenticeships matter in engineering
National Apprenticeship Week is a UK-wide celebration highlighting the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy. It showcases how apprenticeships provide real-world skills, recognised qualifications and long-term career opportunities across industries such as engineering and manufacturing.
For companies like ours, National Apprenticeship Week is also an opportunity to recognise the dedication of apprentices and reinforce the importance of developing skilled engineers from within.
From our apprentices’ own experiences, the benefits of choosing an engineering apprenticeship are clear:
- Hands-on learning in a real working environment
- Earning while gaining recognised qualifications
- Learning directly from experienced engineers
- Developing both technical and personal skills such as resilience, timekeeping and adaptability
- Building a stable, long-term career in a trade that will always be in demand
This National Apprenticeship Week, we’re proud to celebrate the hard work, progress and ambition of its apprentices – the engineers who will help shape the future.
