About Alex…
Alex Carribine from Liverpool was looking for a new career in a growing industry, one leading to future opportunities that could support and create stability for his young family – but could he get all of this from an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships were a consideration for Alex, however he knew it would be difficult to support his family on the traditional apprentice wage. He then heard about the IACS team and the ‘Practitioner in Pipelines for Hydrogen and Utilities’ apprenticeship.
Alex explains:
“There is no doubt that apprenticeships are a great route into developing new skills while also getting hands-on experience. But, if you are like me and have a family to support, these aren’t the only things you have to consider!
“When I met the IACS team and heard about the apprenticeship it was clear that they also recognised this. Not only had they created a structured programme, linked to the needs of a wide-scope industry, but they included a competitive starting salary that’s almost unheard of in the world of apprenticeships.”
About the apprenticeship…
The ‘Practitioner in Pipelines for Hydrogen and Utilities’ apprenticeship is a 16-month programme that combines learning at Hopwood Hall College and University Centre with practical on-site experience.
Each apprentice starts on a basic salary of £28,000 a year, with opportunities to achieve performance-related incentives as they gain the individual certifications awarded by The Welding Institute (TWI). Providing additional security, on successful completion of the apprenticeship, each apprentice is offered a permanent role with IACS Ltd.
Alex adds:
“In short, the main attraction to the IACS apprenticeship was that it leads to a career, one with longevity.
“But there were so many other benefits too! There is travel, whether here in the UK or in a different country; the potential to gain multiple qualifications, skills and experience in a growing industry; ample opportunities for years to come; and the stability offered through full-time employment with IACS. None of this could be taken for granted.
“Ultimately there is no ceiling to growth within IACS. They start you on the right path that leads to training, skills and qualifications. I’m certainly looking forward to a long enjoyable career ahead of me. All the lessons learnt and laughs along the way will help, I’m sure.”
