About Michael…
Apprenticeships are often seen as an alternative to college for young people starting a trade or vocation. However, this is a misconception, which is exactly what Michael Taylor discovered when he was introduced to the IACS apprenticeship.
The ‘Practitioner in Pipelines for Hydrogen and Utilities’ (PIPHU) apprenticeship is inclusive, attracting people of all ages and abilities. For Michael, as an example, it was his opportunity to retrain in a new field of expertise.
Michael comments:
“When I was initially introduced to the IACS apprenticeship, I was actually quite nervous. I thought that I was too old for an apprenticeship and that I wouldn’t be considered – I’m very glad that I did decide to look into it because now I am on a very interesting journey.
“What really appealed to me about the opportunity with IACS was that there was a combination of technical skills and scientific understanding, with inspection tasks that use both industry knowledge and specialised equipment.”
Building confidence…
The PIPHU Apprenticeship provides a fully-funded pathway for individuals to gain practical experience on-site, learn the fundamentals of the role in a classroom-based environment and also earn a competitive salary.
Michael adds:
“Although I enjoy learning new skills, there are the necessary exams you have to pass to prove you are competent and able to carry out your new duties. I, for one, am not very fond of sitting exams but IACS has been extremely helpful in calming my nerves! They provide excellent resources and opportunities which has definitely helped in building my confidence.”
Michael’s ambition…
Becoming a multi-disciplined Pipeline Inspector and being a part of huge national projects is where Michael’s ambitions are leading. In terms of a career, he hopes to help the country switch from depending on fossil fuels to more renewable Hydrogen energy, while personally aiming to create a career that provides for his family and keeps him wanting to learn more and more.
Michael explains:
“Delivering the infrastructure of the future to the next generation would be a historic undertaking, a huge bonus on top of completing the pioneering apprenticeship. The major North West venture designed to bring renewable Hydrogen to power industries and communities is a really good example of the projects available in the UK at the moment and one that I could be a part of in the future.
“Unlike some people, I love working outdoors whatever the condition, so I am looking forward to this aspect of the role.
“I’m also quite a technical person, so understanding and using the equipment to test the integrity of parts is an aspect of the role that I’m keen to learn – as well as helping companies to provide the best possible product when delivering vital utilities in support of our energy infrastructure.”
About the apprenticeship…
The ‘Practitioner in Pipelines for Hydrogen and Utilities’ (PIPHU) apprenticeship is a 16-month long programme that combines classroom learning at Hopwood Hall College and University Centre with practical on-site experience.
Each apprentice starts on a competitive salary of £28,000 per year, with the potential to earn performance-related incentives once they have completed their certifications from The Welding Institute (TWI). Successful apprentices are guaranteed a permanent role at IACS Ltd upon completion of the PIPHU apprenticeship.
Michael comments:
“The first few months of the PIPHU apprenticeship have been truly eye-opening. We’ve already completed a couple of exams meaning we’re already learning the skills needed to carry out our future roles professionally.
“If I were to describe the apprenticeship in three words, I would choose tremendous, inspirational and dream.
“It has been an absolutely brilliant experience, with a pace that has taken my breath away. Being on a journey that takes you through a detailed programme that equips you with the skills to inspect, detect and be the best in the test, is just incredible.
“It has been the opportunity of a lifetime for me. Not to sound too sentimental but, I finally feel like I’m in the right place.”