From Apprentice to Board Room with Charlie Blakemore

Our own Chief Operating Officer, Charlie Blakemore, started his career as an apprentice. We spoke to him to get an insight into his progression through the ranks, and how the chance to do an apprenticeship led him to where he is now.

Charlie Blakemore, Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Intercity Technology

What apprenticeship programme did you do and how long did it take to complete?

My Engineering apprenticeship was with GKN -  a global engineering and aerospace company and lasted 4 years, involving day release and one evening at college.

What made you decide to do an apprenticeship?

I was keen to start a career in Engineering as soon as possible and gain experience in the workplace at the same time as progressing my academic qualifications.

During your apprenticeship what kinds of projects did you support and what type of work did you undertake on a daily basis?

I was really lucky. I started my apprenticeship Manufacturing armoured vehicles and tanks. I was
a Production Engineer and CNC programmer for huge milling machines that manufactured components for the vehicles. I also remember driving the vehicles in off-road trials early in my career.

How has completing an apprenticeship benefitted you in your career?

I think it gave me real grass-root experience in engineering and the chance to tackle challenging technical issues learning from experienced people. It progressed my qualifications too which enabled me to complete a Masters Degree later on in my career. It also showed me the importance of working as part of a team and that everyone has an important role to play in a business no matter what level they are. I also built long term friendships that I still value even now.

How do you see the relationship between apprentices and the current skills-gap we are seeing in the industry?

I think the resurgence in apprenticeships is fantastic for businesses and people starting their careers. It is a great opportunity to develop young people to meet current and future business needs. This will help businesses from all sectors to target and fill skill gaps that will help businesses and individuals grow.

What advice would you give to youngsters looking into apprenticeships?

I think they are a great platform for their future career. They gain real experience as well as developing their education and gaining important qualifications. It gives them the opportunity to start work and earn a wage which gives them more freedom and independence as well as managing their own finances from an early age. They will be part of a team, build friendships and learn new skills and technology.

My last bit of advice is do something that you will enjoy, work hard at it and the sky is the limit.

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