About Leon…
A year in pipeline coating was all 22-year-old Leon Humphreys needed to know that he wanted a career in pipelines. But, it also taught him two valuable lessons – to achieve his ambition he needed experience and ‘tickets’ to access the construction sites!
It was this insight that steered Leon towards IACS Ltd and their pioneering ‘Practitioner in Pipelines for Hydrogen and Utilities’ apprenticeship, which includes the UK’s first Ofqual registered qualification in hydrogen safety.
Leon comments:
“I became a coater by accident. I applied for a role in spraying and when I got the job, they trained me there and then. I really enjoyed it.”
Coating, however, did not offer him the career progression he wanted, Leon explains:
“After a year in coating, I knew that I wanted more! Insight from being in this role, alongside tips and advice from friends and family, made me realise that to progress, I needed additional qualifications under my belt and further experience. It’s one of the reasons why I was so interested in the IACS apprenticeship. I could obtain what I needed. I could learn while I earn.”
About the apprenticeship…
Entering the world of Pipelines is not easy! Before even accessing a site, an Energy and Utility Skills Register is required.
Those embarking on the 16-month ‘Practitioner in Pipelines for Hydrogen and Utilities’ apprenticeship, which is derived from the Construction Support Technician apprenticeship standard, not only obtain their EUSR but recognised qualifications and certifications from training and examinations delivered by TWI, Hopwood Hall College and Hydrogen Safe.
Bespoke course features also include welding, coating and painting inspection and non-destructive testing. Each student also spends invaluable time on a live site alongside IACS inspectors, here they apply their learning and fine-tune their skills.
A bright future ahead…
Leon joined the IACS Training and Education team in September 2023, as part of the first cohort of apprentices. Straight away he thrived on meeting new people and diving into a mix of classroom-based and practical learning.
“I am seven months in and loving it, but can’t quite believe that I am nearly halfway through my apprenticeship. I have already achieved so much but still have loads to learn!
“I’m looking forward to continuing my course and pressing on with the educational side at Hopwood Hall College. Importantly I’m achieving my tickets and certification alongside life-long and work-ready skills.”
