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Apprentices in the water industry

Hear from current apprentices about what it's like to work in the water sector and why it’s so rewarding.

People of all ages and backgrounds are attracted to working in the water industry because of the variety of roles on offer. £104 billion will be invested in the water industry over the next five years, which includes the creation of up to 4,000 new apprenticeships and 30,000 new jobs - a 50% increase in the workforce. You might expect to see engineers and technicians, but there are also data analysts, auditors, surveyors, civil designers and environmental scientists - to name just a few.  

Apprentices in the water sector tell us that they are learning skills for life which are setting them up for a varied and rewarding career. They take huge pride in working for water companies at the heart of their communities, helping supply an essential service to the public and improve the environment. What has consistently surprised apprentices across the industry is how well supported they are as they learn. They feel valued and nurtured by colleagues and their confidence has grown as they take on responsibilities.  

With water companies located across the UK anyone looking for new skills and opportunities can find out more about apprenticeships from their local water company. 

Data Analyst Apprentice, Anglian Water

Fasiah

Fasiah was uncertain about his future, so he decided to pursue his interest in technology by becoming a data analyst apprentice at Anglian Water. A friend recommended Anglian Water for being a collaborative and inclusive workplace. Fasiah is proud of the focus and commitment he’s shown in meeting deadlines while juggling personal plans. He was surprised by the trust he was given to manage his own tasks, while feeling supported from day one. It’s paid off as he achieved a distinction! Fasiah’s advice to anyone who's unsure of what they want to do: "try an apprenticeship! It allows you to explore your interests while gaining valuable skills along the way."

Fasiah
Richard Cake

Leakage Inspector, Wessex Water

Richard

Richard has discovered that age is no barrier to learning, as he’s gained a nationally recognised qualification by becoming a Career Development Apprentice while working at Wessex Water. He’s proud to showcase the training and knowledge that his team members have taught him. To anyone thinking about their future, Richard says ‘Go for it! Doing an apprenticeship is just the first step in a career path that you can change.’

Ella

Wastewater Electrical Network Asset Engineer, United Utilities

Ella

Ella was considering becoming a self-employed electrician but wanted to join United Utilities after hearing all about the excellent training available and the support network. Ella says she is 'most proud of how my confidence is starting to improve' because of the many opportunities for personal growth and career development. Her advice to anyone applying for an apprenticeship is to take time to research the company, especially the quality of the training.

Bryce

Apprentice Process Controller, United Utilities

Bryce

Bryce wanted to become an apprentice at United Utilities because of its responsibility to provide an essential public service, combined with great career opportunities and training. He has particularly enjoyed learning resilience and teamwork through extra-curricular activities. The level of support he has received from his mentor has impressed Bryce, with whom he can speak to with confidence. For anyone considering an apprenticeship in the water sector, Bryce says it's 'a robust industry, where you have the potential to take your career wherever you would like to'.

I'm proud to be a small part of an essential service for many people. I have always loved doing things for other people and the community.

Daisy / Process Engineer Apprentice (Clean Water)
Process Engineer Apprentice, Yorkshire Water

Daisy

Daisy feels really motivated and proud to be an apprentice at Yorkshire Water and to be providing an essential service and helping the community. It can be daunting but Daisy values the close-knit support network and the time she's given by colleagues. Her advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship is that you’re not expected to know everything straight away and while it might take time for the pieces to come together, everyone wants you to succeed and become confident in the role.

Daisy
Matthew

Apprentice Engineering Technician, South West Water

Matthew

Matthew was between jobs and uncertain what direction to go in, but now as an apprentice at South West Water he’s proud to have won two awards. He was impressed by how supportive his managers were, making him feel valued and not just a number. Matthew is 31 and says ‘there is no such thing as too old to start again and every day is a school day so why not start an apprenticeship and get paid while you learn lots of new life skills.'

Jo

Operations Management Graduate, South West Water

Jo

After finishing university Jo wanted to get experience in a range of business areas to kick-start her professional development, and her interest in sustainability led her to South West Water. She’s gained confidence to take on more responsibility and feels her work makes an impact. The sense of community among graduates and industry events creates a great sense of camaraderie and support. Her advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship is to have a plan and go for it!

Oakley

Production Maintenance Technician Apprentice, Portsmouth Water

Oakley

Oakley was keen to work at Portsmouth Water where he could work on a wide range of different electrical and mechanical units. He didn't expect to experience so much in such a short time and he’s proud to be part of the team.

Higher Level Apprentice - Science, Northern Ireland Water

Gema

Scrolling Facebook led Gema to a new career in a laboratory, after she saw and applied for an apprenticeship with Northern Ireland Water. Studying for a Foundation Degree has required perseverance but Gema has received support both at work and college. Gema is now learning many different things in the lab, and absolutely recommends Northern Ireland Water’s Entry Level Academy. 

Gema
Raheem

Electrical Maintenance Technician, Severn Trent

Raheem

Raheem wanted to join Severn Trent after hearing of the potential for progression. He’s proud to have had his work already celebrated despite only being there four months. He’s received considerable support from across the company. Everyone's been really understanding he's still learnining, and always ready to offer help when needed. Raheem’s advice for anyone considering an apprentice is that it’s a pathway to success and a great career.

Keira

Environmental Practitioner Apprentice - Level 6, Severn Trent

Keira

Keira’s interest in environmental science led her to become an apprentice at Severn Trent. She’s enjoyed travelling across the region visiting different sites and gaining insight into the company’s breadth of responsibilities. Keira thought she would be stuck to one team but interacts with young professionals across the organisation. Her advice for those applying is to research about the industry so you can stand out from the crowd.

Jacob

Operational Apprentice Level 3 Water Industry Network Technician, South Staffs Water

Jacob

Jacob wanted to join South Staffs Water to work on a variety of projects and says no two roles are ever the same. He was surprised to learn about how water reaches our taps, and finds it rewarding working in an industry where he can help solve problems for people. For Jacob an apprenticeship is a perfect combination of learning skills, earning money and setting up a job for the future.

I was surprised to learn how water reaches our taps. It's rewarding working in an industry where I can help solve problems for people.

Jacob / Operational Apprentice Water Industry Network Technician
Group Internal Auditor, South West Water

Saffron

Saffron knew that university wasn’t for her and instead wanted to learn on the job, applying financial concepts to a large company like South West Water. The variety of work experience positions included within the apprenticeship also appealed to Saffron, but what she didn't expect was that 'there really is something for everybody in the water sector'. Before her apprenticeship she had no idea about the permanent role she’s now taken on. Working in internal audit, Saffron enjoys learning about different areas of the company and collaborating on optimal ways to work. Her advice is that if you have a particular employer in mind but they aren’t yet offering the apprenticeship you want, then ask them!

Saffron
Callum

Apprentice Data Scientist, Yorkshire Water

Callum

Callum wanted to work at Yorkshire Water because of its emphasis on collaborative working and the support it offers apprentices. He was blown away by how his colleagues have gone above and beyond to help him get the best out of his work. He’s now looking forward to applying the technical skills he’s learnt to his first project. His advice for applicants is to practise transferable skills like communication and team work, and the ability to learn from mistakes.

Joe

Apprentice Resource Engineer, Yorkshire Water

Joe

Joe loves spending time in the countryside and wanted to work at Yorkshire Water, to learn all about the water treatment process. He’s proud to be working on reservoirs and stations that are essential to providing safe water to customers. He's appreciate being able to learn at his own pace thanks to his mentor and support team. Joe’s advice is to explore the many different apprenticeships to find the right fit for your interests.

Alex

Maintenance Technician Apprentice, Anglian Water

Alex

Alex was keen to work for Anglian Water because of the opportunities for career advancement and further qualifications. The skills he’s gaining now can be applied to different roles within the company, setting him up for his future career. He’s most proud for having been nominated for an Apprentice of the Year award. Alex says that apprentices are the future of the business and can gain valuable insights from experienced technicians.

Quantity Surveyor, Severn Trent

James

James saw the positive experience that his brother had as an apprentice at Severn Trent and liked the idea of making an impact where he lives. He was surprised how his apprenticeship broke stereotypes with the responsibility he was given e.g. leading on capital construction for the Strongford Net Zero Hub project. Having achieved a first-class degree alongside his work, James is now line managing a new apprentice. His advice is to put yourself out there and when you’re out of your comfort zone embrace it as an occasion to learn.

James
Owen

Water Utilities Apprentice, Northern Ireland Water

Owen

Owen feels that his apprenticeship at Northern Ireland Water has been the best choice. He felt well prepared by the company before going out to work, and the coursework reinforces what he needs to know. He has been able to tap into support and information from his manager and the other apprentices. Alongside the benefit of getting qualified while earning, Owen adds that the apprenticeship is a great way to meet new people and make friends.

Danni

Scientific Apprentice, Northern Ireland Water

Danni

Danni wanted to learn new skills in a rewarding workplace, and wanted to join Northern Ireland Water as it plays a crucial role in supporting the community and the environment. She was impressed by the company’s commitment to developing talent and hands-on learning. She says that “every staff member is always so welcoming and there is never a “stupid” question.” Not only has Danni received support from colleagues and mentors, she’s even made friends for life and can’t recommend the company enough!

Rayana Guedi

Civil design engineer, Wessex Water

Rayana

Rayana wanted to pursue a more challenging and exciting career and was drawn to an apprenticeship at Wessex Water because of the numerous career paths available. She’s proud of the opportunity she’s had to contribute to major projects and connect with customers. Rayana was "truly amazed by how vibrant the workplace is."

I loved the idea of my work being integral for the general public’s daily life. I knew I would be working in a role that has a lot of responsibility.

Bryce / Apprentice Process Controller
Civil Engineer Degree Apprentice, Anglian Water

Emma

A competitive salary, career progression and employee support at Anglian Water all appealed to Emma. At first she was daunted by working on construction sites but now she enjoys the practical insights she gets from them. Her advice to anyone thinking of an apprenticeship is that there is always a mixture of people, you aren’t expected to know anything technical when you start and there’s lots of support.  

Emma
Shahan

Apprentice Field Service Engineer, United Utilities

Shahan

With electrical qualifications under his belt, Shahan knew an apprenticeship at United Utilities would provide hands-on experience, and he’s proud to be part of the team maintaining a large site. He has found that the company lives up to being truly inclusive and offers many routes for support, with approachable management. He says that an apprenticeship ‘is a great way to kickstart your career’ and he feels ‘more competent and confident’ in his role.

Harrison

Operational Apprentice Water Industry Network Technician, South Staffs Water

Harrison

Harrison enjoys the hands-on learning with his apprenticeship at South Staffs Water, and is proud of the communication skills he’s picked up. He’s enjoyed gaining insights into the different company departments and has identified a role he wants to pursue. He was surprised by how welcoming everyone was and being given the confidence to learn from mistakes. Harrison thinks the apprenticeship is the best thing he’s done!

Laura

IT Technician Apprentice, Portsmouth Water

Laura

Laura was looking for a career change and applied for an IT apprenticeship at Portsmouth Water, where she was confident she would feel valued. She is proud of having beaten off the competition to secure the role and was humbled by how friendly and helpful her colleagues have been. Her advice to anyone thinking of a change is not to be afraid of the leap, ‘life is short, and it could be the best decision you ever make.’

Contact your local water company to find out about the apprenticeships they offer