Meet Callum Wood

Tell us about the route into your apprenticeship?

I attended Doncaster UTC, which had links to various employers, including VolkerRail. One of the things that interested me about VolkerRail was its size, as well as the wide range of jobs available. The benefits were also better than other companies I had applied for, so I set up a meeting with my careers advisor, who then helped with the application. 

Why did you choose an apprenticeship in engineering?

My interest in engineering started at school, and I was able to develop my skills through studying engineering at A Level. Rather than going to university to study full time, I felt an apprenticeship was the best route to go down for me. This meant I could study for a degree, but also have a lot of on-the-job experience by the end of the apprenticeship.

I may only be a year in, but my advice – to anyone considering a career – is, if you are given the opportunity to do an apprenticeship, definitely take it. The qualifications and experience you will gain will set you up for the rest of your career.

What are your main duties and responsibilities?

As an engineering apprentice, I undertake and complete role specific tasks that are set for me, whilst also ensuring that I am studying towards getting my degree. It’s important that I complete my course assignments and tasks at work to a good standard, so that I can develop my knowledge throughout the apprenticeship. My main responsibilities include various admin tasks, such as recording test results, as well as the occasional site visit to see how well a job is progressing.

What skills have you gained so far?

The knowledge I need for my job role, and the rail sector as a whole. I achieved this through working on site and in the office, and learning from other engineers and electricians. My colleagues have helped to support my development, particularly in the principles of electrical engineering, and the skills required to work as an electrification and plant engineer.

VolkerRail has also been very supportive. I work with people who have already been through the same course, so I know if I ever find anything difficult, I could turn to any of them for help and support.

Describe your best moment

I have enjoyed every day of my apprenticeship so far, the pace of work can vary, but every day is a learning experience, whether it be on the job or at university. This has helped to develop my understanding of what happens on the railway.

It is definitely interesting to see first-hand the variety of work that goes into maintaining the UK’s railway infrastructure, and the roles and responsibilities being carried out by other engineers.