Careers

''I was attracted to Star because they work with a lot of big customers such as Asda and Tesco with big sites which I was really interested in. Star are always looking to improve and expand into different areas of refrigeration and heat pumps where others have not been before.''

Gavin Kidd, Refrigeration Engineer

Gavin began an apprenticeship at Star’s Bellshill branch in May 2016 and now works full time as a fully qualified refrigeration engineer. Through his apprenticeship he gained multiple qualifications including an NC and an SCQF Level 5 in Electrical Engineering but his highlight was winning third place at IOR Scotland Apprentice Of The Year awards. He now hopes to undertake an engineering management course and progress to a more senior role within Star.

What is your educational background?

I left high school after 6th year with 5 Highers in chemistry, physics, maths, English and PE

How did you start working for Star?

I was interested in completing an engineering apprenticeship so I attended a careers day with Star’s training provider EKGTA. After interviewing with EKGTA, they introduced me to Star and I joined their apprenticeship programme.

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

It was the best opportunity that came from the college interview. I was attracted to Star because they work with a lot of big customers such as Asda and Tesco with big sites which I was really interested in. Star are always looking to improve and expand into different areas of refrigeration and heat pumps where others have not been before.

Describe your apprenticeship experience with Star?

It was brilliant. I really enjoyed it! All my colleagues in the branch were really welcoming and I had a really great relationship with them. It was like working with your friends every day. There were also lots of development opportunities and alongside gaining hands on experience in the industry, I completed an NC and an SCQF Level 5 in Electrical Engineering, as well as completing my F-Gas assessment and PASMA onsite scaffolding construction course.

Did you do any further studying after your initial apprenticeship/qualification?

Not yet but with Star’s great support and development opportunities I am looking to do an engineering management course with the Open University to further progress my career.

What is your current role and where do you see your role progressing?

I am an industrial refrigeration engineer. I progressed into the role after completing my apprenticeship. In the future, I have ambitions to move into the management side of operations which I feel supported to achieve.

Any general career highlights?

Being awarded third place at the IOR Scotland Apprentice of the Year Awards in 2018 after being nominated by my line manager was a huge highlight for me. Finishing my apprenticeship is also an achievement I am very proud of.

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

My advice would be to get stuck in and don’t just wait for things to happen. Use your initiative, always get involved with opportunities and don’t let them pass by. Be enthusiastic and if you work hard you’ll make it.

Gavin Kidd, Refrigeration Engineer