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How did you get into engineering?

When I finished my GCSEs I wanted to do something practical and get a job where I could solve problems. I started an apprenticeship at a local engineering business called Allen Diesels which was later bought out by Rolls-Royce. I completed my apprenticeship as an electro-mechanical engineer in 2000 and was lucky to benefit from a wealth of experience within the team. I then continued in education for a further five years to study electrical and electronic engineering. I was mentored by some individuals who really instilled in me the attributes that I use on a daily basis even now.

What path did your career take after your apprenticeship?

I spent the next 10 years gaining a wealth of practical experiences, working within the power generation industry, running, servicing and maintaining multiple power and pumping stations, before moving into the world of suction excavators in 2007. I then became a service manager, looking after the repairs and maintenance of suction excavators until 2013 when my wife and I decided to pursue our idea of starting our own business.

What do you like best about engineering?

I think it’s a really rewarding career if you enjoy finding innovative solutions to complex problems, fault-finding, feeling successful at the end of the day, and working hard to solve a problem that then results in great feedback from the customer or client. It requires critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to think outside the box. Engineering is a field that is constantly evolving and advancing. As an engineer, you have the opportunity to engage in continuous learning which enables you to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies.

Why should people get into engineering?

It’s well-publicised that there is a skill shortage in this area, so as well as all the personal rewards of the job, I feel like there’s never been more appreciation for the work that good engineers do. I am fortunate to have learned from and worked with some great engineers. The one thing I would say is that really good engineers seem to have high job satisfaction, and I guess that’s because it’s a job where you can actively solve problems day in and day out. I definitely feel that engineering is a highly sought-after profession with excellent job prospects and huge opportunities for career growth.

What skills have you transferred from your career as an engineer across to your journey as a business owner and entrepreneur?

As I’ve mentioned, the resilience and persistence of engineers is a common theme. Owning your own business is a constant stream of challenges, but if you’re not afraid of solving problems and coming up with improvements, then it’s hugely rewarding. I think a lot of the confidence I gained in my own ability in the first part of my career has been significant in keeping us on a successful path with our own business. I also think that having been an engineer really helps me with managing the business because I understand what I’m asking of our team and I understand the challenges they’re facing.

What did you think your career would look like when you started your engineering apprenticeship and how is the reality different?

I’m not sure I had an exact idea, I just knew I enjoyed what I did! Over time the experiences I had and the people I met shaped me, and I definitely had good people around me to provide me with the challenges I needed to develop my confidence as well as my engineering ability. Those people also taught me a lot about taking opportunities when they arise, not putting things off or getting too comfortable and I’m proud to say that I can see that ethos all throughout our team at RSP UK.