Jenks & Cattell Engineering Ltd have over a decade of experience in developing engineering apprentices within the company. We have taken some time with James to discuss how he is enjoying his apprenticeship with us as he moves into his 4th year of ‘earn whilst you learn’ hands-on education. James’ inspiration into the world of engineering was via his Grandad, who must be very proud of him.
James’ role here is office based, with excellent opportunities to work on the shop floor using various machinery and liaise with colleagues and customers on a daily basis.
Speaking of why an engineering apprenticeship was the right education path for him, James said:
“The apprenticeship scheme was the right route for me over any other type of education as it is a hands on experience. I have gained experience on the shop floor and in the office to allow me to use the knowledge I have from college in real life circumstances.”
James continued to speak about his projects undertaken with us:
“I have designed and manufactured a welding fixture for a laser cut metal cooling bracket for an off-highway OEM. I have also been part of a team to implement multiple projection weld fixtures which I have designed to customer CAD data and poke yoke’ via profile of the parts. This has prevented parts from being welded on the incorrect side for example”.
“I was tasked to find a quality sub-contractor who could machine a high quality checking fixture for laser cut panel components to be checked to tolerance. We have multiple components of common sizes and I worked with the sub-contractor during the design process to ensure it met our customer requests and saved costs in having a common tool. The gauge was colour coded for common components as a preventative measure.”
In September James will continue as an apprentice going into his 4th year of education with a HNC level 4 in Manufacturing whilst implementing procedures and methods during work at Jenks & Cattell. James hopes to further his Engineering knowledge to higher education over the next few years and progress my career in the industry – we wish you continued success with us at Jenks & Cattell Engineering.
Apprenticeships are an invaluable experience creating an ideal start for a bright future in engineering.
We will be recruiting for a new apprentice to start this month in our tool room with City of Wolverhampton College – please get in touch via Jobs@jcel.co.uk or via LinkedIn for more information.
Full case study available to view on LinkedIn: Engineering Apprentice Case Study
