CNC Machinist Apprentice
Location: Devonport, Plymouth, England
Sector/Business unit: Nuclear
My apprenticeship, why I chose it, and why I chose Babcock:
I chose the CNC Machinist apprenticeship at Babcock for several reasons, but the main one was actually my wife! I had always thought of a job as something that paid the bills out of necessity, with any excitement about the subject being a bonus. Then, when I met my wife and moved to Plymouth, she was completing her PhD. Seeing her drive and passion for her subject really inspired me to think about changing my job and trying something new that would interest and challenge me. She always said that when I was ready to make the leap, she would support me – and that really gave me confidence.
Then Covid and the lockdowns happened, and, like many people, I started to consider what I wanted out of life. That period of time made me reflect and pushed me to look into careers that would genuinely interest me.
I’ve always had an affinity for marine and race engineering, and I’m a big fan of SailGP and Formula 1, so I knew there was a real possibility of finding that mix of career and enjoyment I was looking for. I visited apprenticeship and careers fairs to see what was available locally and learnt about Babcock, CNC machining, its applications, and the different types of machines – and the rest is history!
My favourite part of the programme:
My favourite part of the programme has been getting to know my colleagues. The machinists I work with are incredibly knowledgeable and experienced, yet always willing to share that expertise and help me learn the ins and outs of machining to a high standard. It’s clear they genuinely enjoy passing on what they’ve learnt throughout their time here – they are natural teachers!
Outside of the workshop, I’ve really enjoyed the various projects and experiences that Babcock offers apprentices. I’ve taken part in volunteering at careers events, worked at Twickenham during the Army vs Navy rugby day, supported work experience events, and even visited the Houses of Parliament to speak to ministers and guests about my apprenticeship journey.
My most rewarding project/experience:
The most rewarding experience was when I volunteered to support secondary school students during a Young Engineer work experience week. They attended a week-long project and visit at the Dockyard. As part of their programme, they worked in teams to design humanitarian vessels and present their concepts at a Dragons’ Den-style event. Their ideas and enthusiasm were truly inspiring, and their designs were both incredible and innovative. The positive energy in the room really reinforced just how creative engineering can be.
During that week, I also had the chance to pilot a tug from the Sound down to the River Tamar – an experience that was equal parts terrifying and fun, and something I will never forget.
My work-life balance:
Babcock has been incredible at supporting me and ensuring I have regular check-ins. Whether I’ve needed time off for surgery with a managed and phased return to work, one-to-ones about my progress, or just a quick chat with my Apprentice Development Advisor (ADA) over a cuppa, it’s never felt like I’ve been any trouble. I’m genuinely supported to focus at work, complete college assignments when needed, and truly switch off when I go home (something I used to be terrible at!).
My line managers are also fantastic – very understanding and always striving to be as flexible as possible to make sure we’re all happy and supported.
My development:
I have regular check-ins and Continuous Professional Development (CPD) meetings with both my Apprentice Development Advisor and my college assessor. These sessions clearly record my achievements over the past year, highlight areas for improvement, and set out my future goals. This gives me the opportunity to ask for advice on how to achieve those goals and understand the processes involved.
My line manager also checks in with me regularly and assigns additional responsibilities when we both agree that I’m ready and will benefit from them. Through this, I’ve learnt how different job roles operate, how they interact with one another, and the potential career paths I could pursue at Babcock. The sky (and sea) is the limit!
Learn more about our Engineering Trades Apprenticeships and apply online.
