Being a mature student in his 30s didn’t stop Samuel from starting something new
Samuel Thomas Redgrave is a production engineer at Niftylift, working towards a technical support technician apprenticeship at the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre
What got you interested in a career in engineering?
When I was younger, I always wanted to get into engineering. I started working as soon as I left school so I could earn. I started in car mechanics, but suffered nerve damage to my left arm through an injury and that job became difficult. I wanted to stay in the discipline and I knew I could still offer my mind to engineering where my body was lacking, so I began to look at apprenticeships. I found the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre and it all spiralled from there. Just because I was a mature student in my 30s, it didn’t stop me in terms of doing something new and I was determined to give it a go and succeed.
For other people who are looking to get started with a career in engineering, what would you say to them?
If you are determined enough, do it, just give it a go. We only get one life, learn as much as you can, do as much as you can and enjoy it.
What is your favourite part of the job?
It is down to the variety of work you get to do. I have been given various job responsibilities and I am never doing the same thing every day; I really enjoy the opportunities of getting to do an array of different things.
How has an apprenticeship and this job changed your life?
I have spent a number of years suffering from depression and social anxiety, I used to not see or talk to anyone and I got used to it. But trying to come out of my comfort zone is something I have worked on since I started at the AMRC Training Centre. The tutors there and my fellow colleagues at work have really brought me out of my shell and helped me become a person in society again. My depression goes up and down, but I have learnt how to manage it. I have re-orientated my life and now really enjoy my job.
To find out more about engineering manufacturing apprenticeships visit amrctraining.co.uk/
