Growing up around the industry—my dad was a Director for 15 years—an apprenticeship was the natural path for me. University didn’t feel like the right fit; learning on the job while earning seemed far more valuable.

School holidays were spent washing lorries and helping out in the office, so when my apprenticeship began, the business already felt like home. Stepping into a real role was a big shift, though. That first day, seeing the responsibility laid out on paper made everything feel real. Mistakes felt massive at first, but over time, I learned they’re just lessons. Adapting, recovering, and improving became second nature.

Eventually, everything clicked. Effort got noticed, confidence grew, and I knew I was on the right path. I’ve always been driven—ready to work around the clock if that’s what it takes.

The biggest lesson has been about people. Leadership isn’t about giving orders—it’s about respect. You don’t ask someone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself, and that philosophy shapes how I manage my team.

Beyond work, the apprenticeship taught me resilience. Things don’t always go to plan, and that’s okay. Each day is different, and adaptability is key. My career has grown alongside the business, and being here after 25 years says everything about how much this journey means to me.

One surprise along the way? The relationships. This industry is a close-knit community—competitors help each other, and those connections have been invaluable.

For anyone considering an apprenticeship: think long-term. Quick wins are rare. Progress comes from persistence, and hard work always pays off.

Today, my motivation comes from being the best version of myself and setting an example for the next generation. If I had to sum up my journey in one word, it would be diverse. No two days are the same—one day in the office, the next constructing a COVID lab. That variety keeps things exciting and drives continuous learning.

An apprenticeship isn’t just a start—it’s the foundation of a career.