Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with Bowers & Jones apprentice engineer Josh Watson to find out about the benefits of apprenticeships and what he enjoys most about working at Bowers & Jones.
National Apprenticeship Week (10 to 16 February 2025) is a week-long celebration that brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
Josh, who recently turned 18, is on a four-year design engineer apprenticeship, spending four days a week on-site at Bowers & Jones and a further day at Stafford College.
When did you begin your apprenticeship and working at Bowers & Jones?
I started my apprenticeship in 2023 and am in the second year of it now. I did some work experience at Bowers & Jones prior to my apprenticeship and took on a summer job here after I finished my GCSEs. I started my apprenticeship when my summer break was over.
What does your job role at Bowers & Jones involve?
I sort out a lot of the drawings we get for the parts that go in the machines and I provide the CAD (computer-aided design) files for the machines as well. The business has given me more responsibilities as time has gone on.
What are you enjoying about your apprenticeship?
I am enjoying learning how to use the software for my role, because it is useful knowledge to have. I also like the fact that I am trusted to use company equipment. The business has let me use a CMM machine (coordinate measuring machine), which measures the points on parts. They have put me on a training programme for that, which is great.
What skills have you developed during your apprenticeship so far?
I have gained a lot of strategic thinking skills and transferable skills for the future. A lot of the software I have been using is used in other similar job roles and in other companies too. In terms of personal skills, working with all my colleagues has helped me grow in confidence.
How has the business supported you through your apprenticeship?
The Bowers & Jones team helps me a lot with learning new practical skills. Working in design, I sit with the design manager and we go through quite a lot of work together. The company has given me a dedicated day to do my college work, which is really useful as it helps me get it done as soon as I can. My colleagues show interest in my apprenticeship, asking for updates on my progress and checking how I’m doing.
Do you have any hopes for your career in the future?
For now I would just like to continue working and gaining a better understanding of everything I do.
Do you have any advice for individuals who are thinking about embarking on an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a great opportunity to earn money and gain real-world work experience, which isn’t easy to do by just attending sixth form or college. Once you are on your apprenticeship, don’t be afraid to ask questions.
