We caught up with 2023 JIB Apprentice Exchange winner, Matthew Pickering, 18 months after his professional journey to the other side of the world, to find out how this once in a lifetime experience has shaped his career.
Supported to enter the competition by his employer, NG Bailey, Matthew was shortlisted and, after a successful interview with industry representatives, he was announced as the winner. His prize was the opportunity to work in the electrotechnical industry in Queensland, Australia for 6 weeks. This offered hands-on experience of working with professionals overseas and engaging with industry bodies, training providers and electrical contractors.
Speaking about the Apprentice Exchange Programme, Matthew said: “I would recommend it to all apprentices in the electrotechnical sector. The exchange gave me more confidence to pursue my career and academic goals. Throughout my apprenticeship, I had a desire to continue in education and challenge myself academically, but I think being nominated for the exchange by my line managers showed me how much confidence they had in me. It was genuinely fascinating to see and experience how the electrical industry is developed and regulated in Queensland. I don’t think it changed my aspirations, but it helped to give me a better grounding to follow the developments I’m undergoing in my career.”
To encourage others undertaking apprenticeships Matthew said: “Work hard on your academics, they’ll help you understand the ‘whys’ of what we do. Never stop learning, ask questions and remember there are no shortcuts to gaining experience.”
Matthew is currently completing a Higher National Diploma in Building Services Engineering, having just entered his second year of studying. He has also recently become part of NG Bailey’s Engineering Workforce Forum as a representative in the London region, providing him with a platform to raise and resolve work-related issues.
You can read Matthew’s account of his time in Australia here.
