Fabricator Apprentice
Location: Devonport, Plymouth
Sector/Business unit: Marine
My apprenticeship, why I chose it and why I chose Babcock:
I am Fabricator Apprentice at Babcock, currently pursuing a Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Defence, specialising in Structural Steelwork. My passion for fabrication and eagerness to advance my career led me to choose Babcock.
Previously, I worked as a manager at a fast-food restaurant, where I developed key strengths that I knew would be valuable like leadership, teamwork, communication and time management. I also studied biological science at university and felt my skills could easily be transferred into the Fabricator Apprentice role.
Babcock’s apprenticeship programmes have a good reputation and my family’s history of working within The Devonport Royal Dockyard meant this was an opportunity I couldn’t miss. Additionally, many of my friends have had positive experiences working in the dockyard and have formed great relationships with colleagues.
Babcock offers a variety of opportunities and career paths, and they support my involvement in school open days, where I provide advice and guidance to the future generation of engineers – a role I love.
My favourite part of the programme:
My favourite part of the programme is the variety of work I do. Every day presents new learning opportunities and challenges, allowing me to expand my skills, knowledge, and behaviours within my chosen trade. I have the chance to work across different placements and locations at Devonport dockyard, which significantly enhances my personal learning and development. The support I get from amazing mentors, who provide advice in every section I work in, is invaluable. Plus, I’ve met some fantastic colleagues along the way.
My most rewarding project/experience:
During the first year of my apprenticeship, we had an incredible opportunity to attend a residential week at Skern Lodge, an Outdoor Activity Development Centre in Devon. This exciting experience allowed me to spend a week with other apprentices and the supportive team of Rangers at Skern Lodge. We took part in activities to help us learn skills in areas such as problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership, which are directly applicable to our work.
The week helped me prepare for various scenarios at work and taught me how to handle them. It also allowed me to bond and make new friends with other apprentices, building important working relationships.
My work-life balance:
Babcock offers great flexibility and I have a fantastic work-life balance. I have a generous amount of annual leave, which means I can always fit in a few relaxing holidays abroad!
The working hours suit my commitments to the gym and playing football, so I don’t have to sacrifice my hobbies or interests.
My development:
Throughout our apprenticeships, we receive excellent support from our college lecturers, Apprentices Development Advisors (ADAs) and college assessors. ADAs are always available to assist with any issues or questions we have – they’re friendly and approachable, and best of all they’re only a phone call away.
We also have different colleagues and mentors throughout the apprenticeship who guide us as we work on real scenarios and problems onsite. Mentors allow us to learn through problem-solving and are always open to new ideas. They take the time to go through work step by step with us.
There are numerous courses and events designed to expand our knowledge. In my second year, I completed a programme that taught me skills and techniques for leading a happy, healthy, and successful life both at home and at work.
I never imagined I would acquire the skills and knowledge I’ve gained through this programme. It’s remarkable to think that I had never worked with tools before, yet soon I’ll be a fully qualified tradesperson. This experience has shown me that there are no boundaries to what I’m capable of and has inspired me to continually try new things.
Learn more about our Fabricator Apprenticeships and apply online
