The director of an Ipswich building service company has shared how an apprenticeship started him out on his career as he encourages younger generations into the field.
Vincent Langley, who is now a director and part owner of DPL Group, said that his apprenticeship played “an integral role” in laying the foundation for his future.
It comes as many organisations have marked National Apprentices Week.
Mr Langley said: “I started as an apprentice electrician for William Steward Group age 16. I went to Suffolk New College for over 4 years completing the Electrical Apprenticeship Programme, moving onto an ONC, then an HNC in Electrical Engineering.
“My favourite memory from my time as an apprentice is the friends I made at college and on site - I made friendships that will last a lifetime.
“It was a lot of hard work; early mornings and staying away sometimes, but it was also a lot of fun. The social aspect really helps make friendships for life.
“Being an apprentice enables you to work and learn at the same time, and you quickly learn that there are so many areas for progression if you want it.”
Mr Langley shared his piece of advice for young people who would like to try themselves in various job positions: “You have to be open minded.
“There are so many different types of apprenticeships available in the construction industry, many that you wouldn’t even know exist.
“Don’t be single minded on one trade, send your CV to companies and in their interviews, listen to what they think would suit you best."
He adviced future apprentices to approach companies before enrolling in college and to "be persistent and keep trying".
Since DPL was founded in 2001, they have had over 150 apprentices start their career with them, and 80% of their senior management team started their careers as apprentices.
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