While other 16 year olds may not have quite figured out what they want to do as a career, Ewan Archer, 16, from Easington Colliery, is already pursuing his dream career as an engineer.
Working at Premier Tech Aqua in Peterlee as an Engineering Apprentice organized by East Durham College, Ewan is earning while he’s learning, and it’s clear from speaking to him just how much he’s enjoying the experience of training to become an engineer.
Ewan said: “I’ve always loved doing things with my hands. At school I did a BTEC Level 2 course in engineering, so I looked for apprenticeships in engineering and applied after I left school.
“I decided to do an apprenticeship rather than go to college and university as I think with the apprenticeship it gives you more experience. You’re getting practical training alongside some of the theory as well, so you’re getting two for the price of one really!”
In the first year of his apprenticeship, Ewan is getting to grips with both practical and desk-based engineering as he focuses on health and safety and quality at Premier Tech Aqua. He’s been carrying out work including calibration logs, health and safety logs and getting involved in ensuring that the workplace is safe and in line with all health and safety requirements.
When we asked him what he would say to other people who may be considering applying for an apprenticeship, Ewan had some great advice. He said: “Look for things that make you stand out from the rest. There’s going to be a lot of competition out there for each apprenticeship position, so you’ve really got to try to make yourself be the best candidate.”
Ewan is already looking ahead to the future in engineering too – he hopes that, one day, he’ll be able to make management, while becoming a good engineer and always progressing. He’s confident in his abilities, and it’s clear that he’s always keen to learn new things during his apprenticeship.
“The thing I enjoy the most about working is the team around me.” added Ewan. “They’re all highly qualified and being comfortable around your team members really helps you progress.”
It’s obvious that Ewan has slotted right into the team. Daniel Espley, Senior Engineer at Premier Tech Aqua, works closely with Ewan and was full of praise for him.
Daniel said: “I think Ewan’s been with us for six months now, but it feels like he’s been with us for a lot longer given how much he has achieved and developed in that time. He’s a very mature young man and I’m sure if he keeps on going the way he is, he’ll do really well in his career.”
