Armo (UK) decided last year to hire an apprentice. Our first venture into the world of apprenticeships, we hoped to nurture talent and find someone who would grow into a permanent multi-skilled Armo engineer. Working with Total People, we think we found the man.

Dan Hough joined Armo (UK) in July 2014 and he has not looked back since. Straight from college, Dan knew he would like to work as an engineer and felt the best path to do this would be through an apprenticeship scheme. Dan and I grabbed a cuppa and had a little chat.

Q: How did you get into doing an apprenticeship? 

I applied for lots of vacancies in engineering via Total People and online direct with companies for various positions but always within engineering.

I really liked the idea of applying for roles via an apprenticeship company like Total People as it meant I would have a day a week with them to support my learning.

Q: Why engineering? 

I always wanted to be involved in engineering and have an interest in the way things work, for example when I was younger I worked on my bike constantly and working out how to fix it interested me. I also helped my Grandad do up cars like his Austin A35.

Q: Why did you choose an apprenticeship? 

I decided to apply for an apprenticeship, as it was an opportunity to gain a qualification while earning money at the same time. I enjoy learning on the job and being part of a great team inspires me to do well.

I felt attending college full time was not the route for me. I wanted real world experiences of working and situations that needed quick thinking with appropriate action. Learning this on the job, for me, was the only way forward.

Q: What are the rewards of doing an apprenticeship? 

I find the rewards are that every job is different and therefore I am learning more than I would at college. Knowing all this hard work can lead to a full time job is incredibly motivating in its self! I also learn from an experienced and thorough mentor, Kevin, who gives me a lot of time and patience.

Q: Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others with Armo? 

Yes! I would recommend an apprenticeship at Armo to anyone who is interested in engineering. The experience and qualifications are rewarding but I also get paid!

Q: How has your apprenticeship benefitted you? 

Taking an apprenticeship has been great for a number of reasons; gaining on the job experience, increasing my engineering knowledge and the experience of working for a company that is not your typical 9am to 4pm college hours! The most enjoyable part of the apprenticeship has been the versatility in what Armo do, I have hands on experience in various aspects of engineering including electrics, hydraulics, welding – this really is making me a multi-skilled engineer.

Q: What are your future plans? 

I want to continue with Armo and aim to have my own van…and apprentice!

Q: Do you have any advice for a future apprentice? 

Days are long with early starts and late finish and I work a lot of hours. But it’s outweighed by being rewarded with my tools, working with great people, wages at the end of the month and lots and lots of invaluable experience.