Engineering Apprenticeship

Alfie is two and half years into his engineering apprenticeship, having decided post A Levels that university wasn't for him. He wanted to do something practical, and responded to an online advert from Nestlé, for a role that would allow him to apply his maths skills and statistical mindset to a hands-on line of work. He was confident Nestlé would offer the high standard of training he was looking for.

Lifting the lid

You're never going to know what goes into making cat food, unless it's what you do for a living. The amount of thought and expertise that goes into the machinery alone is mind-boggling at first, but it's exciting to get your head around.

I didn't come from an engineering background, but I've gone from knowing next to nothing, to being responsible for maintenance tasks on the production line throughout the day.

My level of responsibility has grown as my skillset has developed – our mentors at Nestlé are supportive, and while they give you more free reign as soon as you're ready, they're always there to help if you need them.

It's about mindset as well as skillset. If you're up for getting stuck in, anything is possible.

Making a difference with new skills

At college in Liverpool – where I've spent anything from four weeks to three months at a time – I've developed my engineering skills in terms of milling, turning, welding, electrics and more, all of which I've put into practice on the factory floor.

Together with my team, I'm responsible for keeping Purina production lines operational at all times – which means reducing how often there is a breakdown, and how long it lasts.

Work that works for me

I've found my teams at Nestlé to be very accommodating when I need to focus on my studies. I honestly believe there's nothing this company can't give you in terms of support and progression.

Everyone is welcome here – I've worked in seven different and varied teams already, and I've never felt out of place. And I have my team of fellow apprentices; we've become friends, and we support each other and share knowledge.

Believe in yourself

Don't be scared if you don't have the current skillset to be an engineer – or for whatever role you're interested in.

It's about mindset as well as skillset. The most important thing is that you're willing to give it your all, and build a rapport with people along the way.

My ambition is to get a distinction in my apprenticeship, and to secure a permanent contract with Nestlé at the end. I'm already so much more capable, confident and independent than I was, and I'm excited about my future here.