What is your educational background?

I finished high school in 5th year with all the necessary National 5’s and Highers to pursue a career in CAD. On leaving high school I joined an apprentice training centre where they helped me learn more practical skills and also computer design skills in order to progress my experience. It was through the training centre I was introduced to Star Refrigeration where I applied as an apprentice draughtsman. Through Star I was able to have the hands on learning to advance my knowledge and understanding, being given support by the experienced draughtsmen and engineers at Star currently.  Star provided training and day release courses at a local college to learn more about the design software and drawing/modelling principles. Also giving me on-site experience to really grasp what my role represents. Having both academic and hands-on learning has been the perfect route for me and has provided a great foundation to build my future career.

What attracted you to the refrigeration industry and to Star in particular?

Refrigeration is a massive industry in the UK and around the world, I thought it would be a great place to begin a career in computer aided design as it has provided the opportunity to work on complex 3D models, enhancing my experience and skills as a draughtsman. I was attracted to Star Refrigeration as a great company to work for from my research into Star before applying it looked like a great company to work for and during the application process I was given a warm welcome when visiting.

How has your apprenticeship experience with Star been so far?

I have had a great experience as an apprentice at Star so far, everyone has been extremely helpful and given me assistance. I have progressed very quickly and been given responsibility over full contract models and drawings which has made me feel like an integral part of the star design team.

What does your role involve?

I produce and develop 3D models and 2D drawings from refrigeration packages, site layouts and large site pipework models. Through working on these projects I work fully with the other draughtsmen, design engineers and liaise with customers to provide high quality technical drawings.

How do you manage your time between working and learning?

I am given the opportunity to dedicate certain amounts of time to learning and training throughout my week and I am able to manage this with my workflow for the rest of the days allowing me to attentively learn and work to meet all my deadlines.

Where do you see your role progressing after your apprenticeship?

I hope to continue working and learning at Star which will hopefully lead to a more senior draughtsman role within the company.

What advice would you give to young people who are just starting a similar career path to yours?

Decide to do something you will enjoy investing the time and work into, and find a company who is also willing to put the time and effort into progressing you to your full potential.