Severfield apprenticeship offers chance to work on iconic football stadiums while improving grinding and welding skills

Luckily, both Louis and Chris have found exactly what they were looking for in their apprenticeship employers Severfield and co-training providers York College.

To celebrate National Careers Week, we’re shining a spotlight on both Louis and Chris, who are building futures in engineering through the Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Apprenticeship.

Choosing an Apprenticeship is a fantastic way to gain industry experience, develop practical skills, and earn while you learn. 

Severfield are the UK’s market leader in structural steel and we have caught up with Louis and Chris to discuss everything from welding and fabricating to problem-solving and teamwork, as we learn what their day-to-day work looks like, what they’ve learned so far, and why they believe an Apprenticeship is the perfect route into the engineering industry…

Can you describe your role as an apprentice at Severfield? What does a typical day look like?

"We start at 7.30am and gather for a morning briefing with our mentor, Colin. He assigns each of us to work in pairs, focusing on specific bays where we tackle tasks from welding and fabricating to grinding based on the drawings provided. Currently, we're involved in a major commercial project in London. It's great to see the entire team working together, seeing the project evolve from start to finish, knowing we've all contributed."

What inspired you to pursue an Apprenticeship in engineering?

"The opportunity to gain hands-on experience while earning a wage is a big advantage of Apprenticeships, especially in engineering. The size and variety of projects we handle at Severfield, from football stadiums (for clubs like Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal and Fulato skyscrapers like the Shard, align perfectly with my interests. Enjoying what you do at work brings out the best in you."

What has been your favourite part about working with the team at Severfield?

"The teamwork we have is great. We share ideas and help each other out, which is essential since our mentor, Colin, can't be with us all the time."

What engineering subjects or modules have you enjoyed the most, and why?

"Learning about different types of welds at College has been particularly interesting. Understanding the different types of welds, and the importance of avoiding porosity in welding, has been important both academically and practically at Severfield."

What tips would you give to someone considering a similar Apprenticeship?

"If you're hands-on and enjoy getting involved in your work, I highly recommend doing an Apprenticeship. It's a great way to kick-start your career while learning a trade and earning money."

What new skills have you learned since starting your apprenticeship at Severfield?

"Since starting at Severfield, I've learned a lot about burning, which was completely new to me initially. From basic skills to becoming more consistent, the experience here has improved my skills.”

How has your experience at York College complemented your apprenticeship?

"Having the combination of practical experience at Severfield and learning at York College has been really helpful. It allows us to compare and contrast different approaches to engineering and provides a broader perspective on our work."

Have you noticed any improvements in your confidence, problem-solving, or teamwork skills?

"Before Severfield, I lacked confidence using tools like grinders and welders. With guidance from our mentor, Colin, on safe usage, my confidence has improved over the past few months."