At a Glance
- Tasks: Become a Wind Turbine Technician Apprentice and learn hands-on skills in renewable energy.
- Company: Join EDF Power Solutions, a leader in accelerating a net-zero future through clean energy.
- Benefits: Enjoy a structured apprenticeship with classroom and on-site learning, plus opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: This is a three-year apprenticeship with a supportive team dedicated to your development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the renewable sector while developing valuable skills and confidence.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed; just a passion for learning and a willingness to work hard.
What\'s it like to be a Wind Turbine Technician Apprentice?
Andrew Armstrong is a wind turbine technician in the Scottish Borders with EDF power solutions. He began his career with us as a Wind Turbine Technician Apprentice and qualified last year. We caught up with him to understand how an apprentice scheme in a business that is committed to his development, launched his career in renewables.
Q. What attracted you to our apprenticeship scheme?
A. I left school at 16 with less than adequate grades and started working in an engineering workshop. My low grades always held me back from applying for an apprenticeship. I worked in a number of hands-on engineering roles, but I struggled to progress due to my lack of education. In turn, this knocked my confidence.
Q. What were you doing before starting the apprenticeship with EDF power solutions?
A. At 18, I had a bit of a false start in an apprenticeship. I’d completed two years of the apprenticeship before, unfortunately, we were all laid off. I then had various other jobs before plucking up the courage at 23 to pay for my own education at night college. I wanted to improve my grades and opportunities.
I was surprised when I achieved a Grade A in my exams! It really encouraged me to keep moving forward. I really enjoyed the experience and proved to myself that with the right mindset, I could accomplish the goals I set myself. It was after achieving my good results that I applied for an apprenticeship with EDF power solutions.
“I feel really privileged to have had an opportunity to get into the renewable sector”
Q. Why did you choose EDF power solutions?
A. I had experience in gas turbines, plant machinery and other maintenance roles, which fuelled my interest in the energy sector. Then I noticed wind turbines popping up where I lived – near Burnhead – which brought me to EDF power solutions. I applied through the local college for the apprenticeship scheme and here I am today!
Q. What was the apprenticeship like?
A. It’s a three-year course that involves classroom-based and job-based learning. In the first year, I spent five days a week in college, getting involved in practical workshops and classroom learning. I’d already had quite a lot of practical experience through my jobs, so I personally learnt more from the classroom training. But for someone who doesn’t have much experience using tools, job-based learning is a very good way to get them exposure.
Year 2s and 3 consisted mostly of on-site learning. But we also had a day release to attend college and keep on top of the classroom learning. Both aspects of the apprenticeship are important.
“Don’t give up. And if it doesn’t work out first time, set goals and give it another go!”
Q. What have been the highlights of your time as an apprentice?
A. Getting an A in my HNC and proving to myself that I have the capability to succeed in an academic environment. Maths was never my strong point and it’s turned out to be the hidden talent I never knew I had! I also feel really privileged to have had an opportunity to get into the renewable sector.
Q. What would you say to any aspiring apprentices?
A. Be persistent and keep trying. A massive learning for me is, if you are unsure, just ask – you aren’t going to get into trouble! This is particularly important given the safety critical aspect of our work.
Q. What’s next on your career path?
A. I would like to grow my career with EDF power solutions. I’m also very keen to keep going with my learning and professional development up to HND level.
Q. Any final words of advice?
A. Don’t give up. And if it doesn’t work out first time, set goals and give it another go! After my first apprenticeship didn’t work out, I really thought that was it. But I just needed to be given another chance. And to find the right apprenticeship in a company that would help me develop my skills.
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#J-18808-LjbffrWhat\'s it like to be a Wind Turbine Technician Apprentice in Sunderland employer: EDF Energy
At EDF Power Solutions, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, particularly for those embarking on a career in renewables. Our apprenticeship programme not only offers hands-on experience and classroom learning but also fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises personal development and growth. Located in the scenic Scottish Borders, our team enjoys a collaborative environment where every individual is encouraged to pursue their ambitions and contribute to a sustainable future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land What\'s it like to be a Wind Turbine Technician Apprentice in Sunderland
✨Get Involved in Local Learning Communities
Join local adult education groups or community centres that host classes. It’s a great way to meet people in the same field, plus they often know about apprenticeship opportunities before they're posted online.
✨Leverage Your Network
Reach out to anyone you’ve met during your studies or any courses you’ve taken. Ask them if they know of any apprenticeship roles, especially in local education organisations, as they might just have the inside scoop on openings at places like EDF Energy.
✨Show Off Your Passion for Lifelong Learning
In interviews and conversations, express your enthusiasm for adult education. Share experiences where you’ve helped others learn or even ongoing projects you're involved in. It’ll set you apart and show you’re committed to the field.
✨Apply Early and Often!
Many apprenticeships have specific application windows, so don’t hesitate to apply as soon as you see a role that interests you—especially at EDF Energy. Keep checking their website and transfer any tips you gather from networking into your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace What\'s it like to be a Wind Turbine Technician Apprentice in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Learning:When applying for an apprenticeship in adult continuing education, it's vital to highlight your enthusiasm for teaching adults and facilitating their learning journeys. Use your cover letter to share specific experiences that showcase your motivation to empower others and expand your own skills in this rewarding field.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if your experience isn't directly in education, include any relevant roles you've had, like mentoring, tutoring, or leading workshops. Showcase how these experiences shaped your understanding of adult learners and educational methods—this can really set you apart!
Tailor Your CV to the Educational Sector:Make sure your CV reflects your understanding of adult learning principles, and include any certifications or courses you've done in education or training. Using keywords that resonate with adult education can also help your application stand out to EDF Energy.
Be Ready to Discuss Your Learning Style:Since this apprenticeship is about fostering learning, be prepared to discuss how you learn best and how you can adapt to meet the needs of diverse adult learners. Think about including a short section in your cover letter that showcases your adaptability and commitment to personal growth in educational methods!
How to prepare for a job interview at EDF Energy
✨Show Your Passion for Education
In adult continuing education, demonstrating a genuine passion for teaching and learning is key. Be ready to share any experiences that showcase your enthusiasm for helping others learn, whether it's tutoring, mentoring, or even sharing your own learning journey.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial in adult education. Prepare to discuss how you've adapted your communication style to suit different audiences. Maybe think of a time when you tailored your message for a group of learners with varying levels of experience.
✨Get Familiar with Learning Tools
As this is an apprenticeship, you'll likely be using various educational tools and platforms. Do a bit of homework on popular tools in the field like Learning Management Systems (LMS) or any specific software that EDF Energy uses, and be prepared for questions about your comfort level with technology.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, your learning potential is as important as your current skills. Be ready to discuss how you approach learning new concepts and how you’ve adapted in previous roles. Showing that you’re keen to grow in this field can really set you apart!
