Found 49 Results
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"The advice I would give is if anyone was interested in advancing their career in industrial refrigeration is give Star a try"
"Star offers a lot of training and courses that enable me to learn what I need to get to grips with the different and much larger plant. There’s a guidance and structure here that means even if you do feel intimidated at first by the size of plant you’re dealing with, there’s always someone to ask and there’s a clear progression pathway so you’re never out of your depth."
Pete Southern, Refrigeration Engineer
"Pete is a field-based engineer at Star Refrigeration, specialising in servicing systems from small DX chillers to large cold store warehouses. Transitioning from commercial supermarket refrigeration, he was drawn to Star for its comprehensive approach to maintenance and prevention, moving away from the quick-fix culture of his previous job. In his seven years at Star, Pete has enjoyed structured career progression, mastering complex ammonia systems and benefiting from extensive training and support. Star's emphasis on health, safety, and thorough service resonates with him, enhancing his professional development."
"I previously worked for a large American chiller company in the north-east of England. I decided to leave this company almost six years ago and join Star Refrigeration. The reason for this was that the career prospects at Star offered the greatest potential."
"The Star work-life balance mantra works well for me, especially with two young children and studying in my personal time"
Liam Carver, Refrigeration Engineer
Liam is an ST4 Industrial Refrigeration Engineer at Star Refrigeration’s Newcastle branch, specialising in ammonia/CO2 systems and complex chillers. He joined Star six years ago, drawn by its excellent training and clear career progression paths. Liam quickly advanced from ST2C to ST4 with Star’s support to complete his engineering degree and further professional development. He thrives on tackling technical challenges, ensuring efficient system operations and minimal downtime for customers. Liam values Star's commitment to his growth and work-life balance, encouraging engineers to embrace challenges and advance within the company.
"I started at Star at the bottom of the engineering structure and have steadily moved through the ranks and become a better engineer because of the experience I have received."
"Star offered me a clear progression path in the form of the ST grading structure"
Lewis Wilkinson, Refrigeration Engineer
Meet Lewis, an Industrial Refrigeration Engineer at Star Refrigeration's Manchester branch. He transitioned to Star four years ago after working for six years at a commercial refrigeration company, drawn by Star's industry reputation and the scale of its projects. Lewis works on large ammonia/CO2 systems and is involved in installations and upgrades. Star has enabled Lewis's steady rise through its structured ST grading system, offering clear career progression and diverse engineering experiences. He advises aspiring engineers to seize the opportunities at Star for extensive learning and advancement. At Star, Lewis appreciates the autonomy in his role and the respect for his professional opinions
"Because my roles are so varied I always feel that there is a new challenge to get stuck into, whether it is learning new equipment and processes or helping to increase the branch’s customer base. And a rewarding challenge is building the relationships with customers that Star prides itself on."
"Star has a second to none approach to training and development"
Graham Whitfield, Refrigeration Engineer
Graham Whitfield id one of Star's Service Supervisors at the Newcastle Branch. He began his career directly from college, transitioning to Star for the opportunity to work with advanced equipment. Over nine years, he progressed from an engineer to a Service Supervisor, where he now enhances branch operations and supports the engineering team. Star’s exceptional training and development programs have been instrumental in his career growth, allowing him to expertly manage tasks from diagnostics to repair completions. He advises engineers to step out of their comfort zones to advance their technical skills, supported by Star’s robust framework.
"I’ve only been with the company a short period of time and already been put through several training courses with more in the pipeline. In comparison to the other companies I’ve worked for, Star provides a lot more opportunities for progressing in to other roles should this be something I’m ever interested in."
"Star offers a clear path to develop and progress in my career."
Chris Bremner, Service Supervisor
Chris transitioned to Star in August 2023 after 14 years as an industrial refrigeration engineer, seeking new challenges and the opportunity to mentor others. His role involves balancing office and on-site responsibilities, supporting engineers, and ensuring safety and efficiency. At Star, Chris has rapidly progressed from a refrigeration engineer to service supervisor at Bellshill, benefiting from tailored training courses aimed at career development. He thrives on problem-solving, mentoring younger engineers, and driving high standards across operations. Chris advises those in the field to stay curious, maintain a positive attitude, and continuously seek growth opportunities.
"Star Refrigeration is well known within the industry and when I was offered a job, I knew it was a great opportunity for me."
"Star has an excellent engineer-focussed training and experience programme which allows us to work our way up to a higher-grade engineer. "
Ben Woolsey, Refrigeration Engineer
Ben Woolsey is an ST4 grade engineer at Star Refrigeration, who plays a crucial role in ensuring that customer cooling plants are serviced and maintained to the highest standards. Ben's interest in refrigeration began at his father's AC and refrigeration company, where he received his initial training and qualifications. Drawn to Star for its industry reputation, Ben has benefited from the company's engineer-focused training programme, which has enabled him to advance from a newly qualified ST1 engineer to ST4 over the last 16 years. He advises those looking to progress in industrial refrigeration to be determined, embrace continuous learning, and feel rewarded in realising the critical impact their work has on the food supply chain.
"what attracted me to Star was the opportunity to work in a big environment alongside people at the apex of their respective area of expertise"
"Although I only just joined, I'm already working towards my next step on the company ladder. At the moment I’m at Star Technical level ST3a, and there’s a clear pathway to progress through the grades."
Angelo Guido, Refrigeration Engineer
Meet Angelo Guido, a seasoned Service Engineer at Star Refrigeration with 27 years of experience. Angelo manages a variety of industrial refrigeration plants and is currently at Star Technical level ST3a, with clear paths for advancement supported by targeted training. He chose Star for the opportunity to work alongside top industry experts in a robust, team-oriented environment. Angelo advises newcomers to start with a strong apprenticeship program to build a solid foundation. At Star, he feels valued for the comprehensive benefits and the potential for continuous career development.
"From management to the directors, everybody listens and our opinions matter to them."
"My best advice I could give would be to apply for a position at Star Refrigeration! You will receive the best possible training in the industry and there are many different career paths you could follow."
Alan Versfeld, Refrigeration Engineer
Alen Versfeld is an ST3B grade engineer at Star Refrigeration’s Derby branch. Originally from South Africa, he transitioned from running his own air-conditioning business to industrial refrigeration at Star, motivated by personal and professional growth amidst political and safety concerns in his home country. Over five years, he has progressed from ST1A to ST3B, thanks to Star's extensive training opportunities and a supportive work environment that emphasises safety and customer satisfaction. He is passionate about delivering excellent service and mentoring the next generation of engineers.
''My current role includes maintenance & Service works on various sites nationwide, from DX systems to Ammonia & CO2 plants.''
''I enjoy the variety of work the most & learning how each plant operates & controls differently. Refrigeration is an excellent trade which constantly tests your knowledge & pushes you to improve as an engineer.''
Scott Vardy, Fast Track Engineer
After completing a degree in electrical and electronic engineering while working as a maintenance engineer, Scott decided to transition to the refrigeration industry because it covers many aspects of engineering, He joined Star's Fast Track Training programme for engineers with previous experience and became a fully qualified industrial refrigeration engineer in just 12 months. His current role involves service and maintenance work on large CO2 and ammonia refrigeration system and he looks forward to progressing through the Star ST engineer grading system.
''I enjoy the responsibility of working on my own and being able to make decision’s''
''I find the company very good to work for as you have plenty of support across all departments. Everyone is friendly and willing to help. The role also comes with an excellent benefits package.''
Jonathon Cosgrove, Industrial Refrigeration Engineer – Fast Track
After completing a pipe fitting apprenticeship with Star's manufacturing department, Jonathon decided to complete Star's Industrial Refrigeration Engineering Fast-Track training programme to become a fully qualified cooling engineer within 12 months. His current role changes day-to-day, some days consist of carrying out maintenance checks on customers sites to make sure the plant is operating as efficiently as possible and minimise downtime. Other days he can be fault finding inside a control panel or overhauling a compressor.
''I enjoy the mechanical aspect the most, getting to replace and rebuild complex, multi million pound cooling technology in small time frames excites me and now I have the knowledge to do so.''
''I like the diverse nature of the work and the different sites and locations you visit daily. One day you are conducting planned preventative maintenance on a modern site and the next day you could be rebuilding a reciprocating compressor from the 1960’s.''''
Sam Corlett, Industrial Refrigeration Engineer – Fast Track
Sam worked in the manufacture of commercial refrigeration equipment and was looking to progress into a broader reaching industry that would satisfy his thirst for knowledge. He enjoys the mechanical aspect of his job the most, getting to replace and rebuild complex machines in small time frames, problem solving and fixing issues. His advice to engineers from other disciplines looking to train in industrial refrigeration would be to concentrate on gaining a working knowledge of the vapor compression cycle and not to be afraid to apply your own knowledge from other fields to solve refrigeration problems.
''The variation of work is another area that differs. Rarely is any day the same as the previous one, and the challenges of maintaining and servicing somewhere in the region of 20 different sites, means you can never sit back on your laurels and think that you know-it-all. If I spend another 20 years plus working in refrigeration, I still don’t think I’d be able to profess to this!''
''As a Fast Track Engineer, your previous engineering skills are recognised and you are actively encouraged and supported by a mentor programme to develop and transfer these skills into the world of refrigeration.''
Richard Gahan, Refrigeration Engineer
Richard joined Star’s Fast Track Training programme After an 18 year career in the Royal Navy working in an operational role working alongside highly trained engineers in support of the UK’s Strategic Deterrent. As a result of this learned engineering knowledge, Richard completed the Fast Track programme in just 9 months, becoming a fully qualified industrial refrigeration engineer. His advice to anyone serving in the armed forces looking to move into a career in refrigeration engineering is to fully utilise the resources that the Armed Forces offer when you make that life-changing decision to ‘push-the-button’ and leave. Pick resettlement courses that are relevant to refrigeration, such as the Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump course.
''The structure to becoming an engineer for star is very similar to that of the armed forces, which was great for myself as it helped moving to civilian lifestyle a lot easier.''
''I joined star with an NVQ level 2 in mechanical and electrical engineering, I feel working for star is massively helping me with my career development plan.''
Jordan Fiddes, Fast Track Refrigeration Engineer
After serving as a Marine Engineer in the Royal Navy where he learned about refrigeration and became fascinated by it, he decided to make a career change and joined Star's Fast Track into Industrial Refrigeration Engineering programme. Jordan found the transition easy as the structure to becoming an engineer in Star is similar to that of the Armed Forces and he feels supported in achieving his career development plan.
''From the very beginning Star have been so supportive, from having dedicated study days to internal support & guidance from colleagues.''
''100% go for it! I believe the workplace (and the world) thrives on diversity so don’t let anything hold you back.''
Eleanor Ford, Maintenance Manager
After finishing her A-Levels, Eleanor applied for a level 2 apprenticeship in Business and Administration at Star Refrigeration. After completing her apprenticeship she was offered a full time role and has progressed through the business, working as a Service Controller and progressing to Maintenance Manager at Star's Manchester Branch.
''An entry level apprenticeship position will form the foundation of a lifelong successful career in any form of engineering whether that be industrial refrigeration or plumbing.''
''I have been fortunate enough to attend the IOR awards ceremony after becoming a finalist for the Apprentice of the Year Award, which proves the quality of the training we received at Star.''
Kelvin Clamp, Refrigeration Engineering Apprentice
After 6th form, Kelvin decided he wanted to do something 'hands on' as he always enjoyed learning how things work and decided to apply for a refrigeration engineering apprenticeship at Star. A large part of the work he does is preventative maintenance, which usually consists of frequent performance checks to ensure systems are running at their design efficiency. Kelvin was recently a finalist at the IOR Apprentice of the Year Awards and hopes to progress through the engineering grading system after completing the apprenticeship.
''Big multinational companies in diverse industries such as petrochemical, cold chain and pharma put their trust on me daily.''
''A personal career highlight was being involved in the installation and commissioning of one of Europe’s largest cold stores. My hard work was recognised and I was invited to the industry's national ACR awards ceremony where we won the ‘Project of the Year’ award presented by Jeff Stelling.''
Milo Tolley, Refrigeration Engineer
Milo originally undertook an apprenticeship at a competitor but switched to Star so I could progress my career with Star's trainee scheme. As a fast track engineer, Milo was able to combine a 4 year apprenticeship into just 18 months. A personal career highlight was being involved in the installation and commissioning of one of Europe’s largest cold stores. After completing his apprenticeship he can go on to Star’s 5 level Engineering grading program to improve his competence, take the managerial route or further his education with a university degree while working as an engineer.
''Getting real-life experience and putting that into action in my studies has really benefitted me.''
''Having the flexibility to work from home especially during term time at university is a great benefit; it has allowed me to stay working throughout the full year not just summertime.''
Olivia Finlay, Human Resources Intern
Olivia is studying HR and Business Law as a joint honours degree at university while gaining experience as a Human Resources Intern at Star Refrigeration. She works 4 days a week during summer and 8 hours a week from home during term time. Having the flexibility to work from home allows her to easily balance her work with her full time studies.
''What I like most is being part of the marketing team and seeing the results of a campaign - in university you write plans but never get to see them being implemented.''
''I have worked at Star since 2018 and what I like the most is everyone is supportive, friendly, approachable and that the company encourages creativity. I also think there are lots of opportunities at Star to enhance your learning and work on exciting projects.''
Anna Flanagan, Marketing Graduate
While studying Marketing, Anna undertook several summer internships at Star and began a full time role upon graduating from university. A highlight of working in Star has been marketing for Star’s 50th birthday focusing on PR, social media, corporate gifts and the website. In the future, Anna would like to progress into the role of a marketing manager.
''I think the employee benefits are really good, I really appreciate those for example the pension and private medical insurance''
''It was great to learn a new skill set. I completed the fast track training programme in 12 months. I really enjoyed learning about industrial refrigeration engineering whilst also applying my skills as an electrician during site visits.''
Chae Poulsen, Fast Track Engineer
Chae completed the fast track engineering training programme at Star's Aberdeen branch in just 12 months and has progressed to an ST2C engineer. His current role involves going to weekly or monthly maintenance works and services on customer sites. His long term ambitions are to continue working his way up the engineering grading system.
''He told me of all of the benefits Star offered with employment and after hearing these amazing benefits I couldn’t turn it down.''
''The trust the management showed continued throughout my apprenticeship and even to this day, I have been a fully qualified engineer for almost 5 years now and I would say that has definitely helped my career progression. Overall Star has a great apprenticeship program and this produces engineers at the top of the trade.''
Keir Dickson, Refrigeration Engineer
After the factory he was working for closed down and he had to leave his previous Apprenticeship, Keir joined Star as a second year Industrial Refrigeration Engineering Apprentice, attracted by the benefits that Star offers to its employees. 5 years on from completing his apprenticeship, he works as an ST2 engineer and hopes to progress to an ST3 engineer by the end of the year. In the future, Keir has ambitions to enter a supervisor or manager role.Page 1 of 3