As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we’re continuing to highlight the incredible talent within our apprenticeship programme. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on third-year apprentices Joe and Vincent, who are taking on bigger responsibilities and preparing for their final year at UK Electrical Installations (UKE).
Growing Through Experience
By their third year, apprentices have developed a strong foundation of knowledge and hands-on skills. For Joe, the daily learning experience has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his apprenticeship:
“It’s been really rewarding doing an apprenticeship and learning new skills on a daily basis that I wouldn’t necessarily be able to learn without the on-site experience.”
— Joe
For Vincent, working on large-scale electrical projects with major globally recognised clients has been a highlight:
“It’s really rewarding seeing a job come to completion after months of hard work.”
— Vincent
Overcoming Challenges
Both Joe and Vincent have faced challenges that have pushed them to grow. For Joe, perseverance has been key:
“The biggest challenge I’ve faced has been perseverance, but I’ve kept pushing on and reminding myself of my end goals.”
Vincent has had to learn to adapt quickly to new tasks, but he’s found a way to overcome this:
“I overcome this by asking questions from the more experienced lads and foremen—communication is essential.”
Taking on More Responsibility
With increased experience comes greater responsibility, and both apprentices have stepped up in meaningful ways. Joe has noticed how much more he contributes each year:
“I can definitely see a difference in responsibility each year throughout my apprenticeship, and I look forward to when I qualify.”
Vincent is now completing tasks independently and proactively planning ahead:
“I am completing tasks on my own, thinking ahead, and getting materials for future tasks in advance.”
Lessons That Stand Out
Joe has learned first-hand how critical communication is on large-scale projects:
“A big lesson I’ve learned this year is the importance of communication, particularly on a massive project where so much is occurring at once.”
Vincent gained a major confidence boost after successfully completing an important task:
“One lesson I’ve learned this year that stood out would be learning to complete my first distribution board. It has given me the confidence to have a go at more tasks that I may not have done before.”
Preparing for Their Final Year
With their final year fast approaching, Joe and Vincent are focused on broadening their skills and preparing for full-time roles at UKE.
“With the end of my apprenticeship getting closer and closer, I am making sure I gain as much experience as I can before I qualify.”
— Joe
“I am continuing to have a go at a range of different jobs on site, whether it is something new or something I have done lots of before, and asking lots of questions on how I can improve or do things differently.”
— Vincent
We’re incredibly proud of how far Joe and Vincent have come and look forward to seeing them complete their apprenticeships.
Want to Join the UKE Apprenticeship Programme?
If you’re looking for a hands-on apprenticeship with real opportunities for growth, visit our Apprenticeships Page to learn more about applying.
