„ I chose the engineering field because of the job security and career prospects.
I made the right decision.”
Callum Hall – Engineering Maintenance Apprentice
Employed by Swietelsky Babcock Rail
My name is Callum Hall and I am a former pupil of Cheadle Hulme High School. I decided to use my GCSE’s to get into engineering through apprenticeship route. I am employed as an apprentice with Swietelsky Babcock Rail, based in Tameside and have been undergoing my practical and theoretical training at SETA since September 2014.
What do you like so far about your apprenticeship?
Training as an apprentice with SETA is a great experience – there is more 1-to-1 help than I expected
and the instructors are always very helpful and friendly. I like mechanical and electrical practical aspects
of the training and the good working environment.
Apprenticeships are good way to start an engineering career, because you get qualifications, train and gain experience on the job and get paid. As you progress you develop skills that you need and apply in your job, instead of just being awarded paper qualifications. My friends at university are regretting not applying for an apprenticeship. I think I made the right decision.
How did you get the job?
I found out about SETA at a career event. I than visited SETA, filled an application and had an assessment
and a short interview. SETA than organised an apprenticeship interview with the reputable employer, who was seeking to recruit and train an apprentice.
How was your job interview and what tips you would give this year candidates?
It wasn’t to daunting, it went well, and I had a good discussion with the people who were interviewing me.
My best tips are to research the company, look at their website,arrive at the interview looking prepared, be polite and come across as interested and professional as you can.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I want to continue working with my company travelling all over the country. Swietelsky Babcock is a long established company, with national and international operations, so I consider myself lucky. I want to progress onto complete HND qualification after my apprenticeship and progress technically within the company.