Tell us a little about yourself and your work.

I started my industrial career at 17 when I was lucky enough to be taken on as a mechanical apprentice at Trostre works. I held a number of positions at Trostre, ranging from line production operative through to technical day team. This was where I found a use for my passion in understanding how computers work and how they can be integrated into a business to improve efficiency and quality

My current role involves the ongoing development and deployment of a business-critical quality system. I developed this to aid the line inspectors in the complex task of web steel inspection to meet very demanding customer requirements

Over the last few years, the system has become more integrated into our plant topography and is now used actively on over 15 production units within the UK hub.

Outside of work, I enjoy tinkering and the challenge of being able to blend classic woodworking and metalworking techniques with modern concepts.

How did you hear about and engage with the Degree Apprenticeship programme?

Tata Steel had representation on the Technocamps steering committee where we learnt of this scheme and its generous funding from HEFCW (now MEDR). Following an internal cascade, I applied for the degree apprenticeship and was accepted.

How did you first get involved with computers and what inspired you to take this path?

I started heavily using computers when I was in my early 20s as I found them to be a good method for helping me overcome my dyslexia. I found that using computers helped to remove the fear associated with spelling and grammar mistakes that can sometimes lead to misinterpretation. Due to my dyslexia, I found that I was able to learn and write code for applications very easily.

I also build my own computers in my spare time which gives me a good understanding of hardware vs software which I have put to advantage in the workplace where I have been required to retrofit new hardware to old systems.

How has the DA helped you in your job role, personal development and career goals?

The Degree Apprenticeship has helped me in my day-to-day working life in the following ways:

• It has improved my ability to strategically plan upcoming work thanks to the techniques learnt on the course (UML diagrams, truth tables).
• Improved my ability to understand what technology should be leveraged at what time.
• The completed degree has helped to formalise my skillset and professional recognition with peers. As the course was fully funded and open to employed people, this gave me an opportunity for a University qualification I never thought I would have the chance to obtain.

 How do you think you will use the skills and knowledge you have gained in the future?

The knowledge gained will be very useful for upcoming projects, especially when dealing with external parties. Understanding how OEM systems work means we can integrate better and purchase the correct solution for the problem

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I believe the degree apprenticeship offered a good set of foundation skills that would help both new and experienced programmers and developers work in a more efficient and standardised manner. I would like to thank all the lecturing and support staff for their support and guidance they gave throughout the course. I am also very grateful to HEFCW (MEDR) for their sponsorship and support of this course, as I do believe it does offer a real benefit to Welsh businesses.

You can find out more about our Degree Apprenticeship on our DA webpage.