An apprenticeship can be a valuable experience for those starting their careers. It can offer on the job training, an insight into the day-to-day operations of a firm and a clear route into a rewarding career.   By working alongside experienced professionals, apprentices develop practical, hands-on skills that prepare them for job roles upon completing their training thus providing a strong foundation for career success.   We sat down with two of our apprentices, Jake and Jack, to learn how they are benefitting from their apprenticeship at Ample Power.   Why have you chosen the career path you have? What do you enjoy the most?    Jake Wallin I enjoy all aspects of electrical works and feel it’s a great career path. I love the fact that, once I am a fully qualified electrician, there are so many opportunities to branch out into.  I am currently in my first year and not sure what area I would like to specialise in once I have finished my training, but I do know that I will be able to explore what I am good at as I go through my apprenticeship. Jack Richards I enjoy learning the technical and science side of the electrical aspects of a construction site. I am particularly interested in electrical installations and how they work in a variety of different projects. The industry is one that is constantly evolving as new technologies and work practices require us to constantly learn new things.   How have you benefited from your experience as an apprentice?   JW For me the real value of my apprenticeship is, not only acquiring the technical skills I need, but also soft skills such as working as a team, problem solving and communicating with people at different levels.  At Ample Power I have learnt a wide range of technical skills such as safety protocols, building codes and regulations, and have been able to apply that knowledge within a live project. JR Being an apprentice has been a beneficial experience for me. I've been able to do things that I'm really interested in, and I have been able to work with so many different people. My apprenticeship has helped me to develop skills and knowledge that I wouldn’t have picked up otherwise. Theoretical knowledge is great to understand the theory behind the processes we undertake but out on a construction site I get to see these how these processes actually work.   What advice would you give to anyone starting out in the electrical industry?   JW Listen and always do your best. I think enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are the most important things if you’re thinking about an apprenticeship. If you come into work every day keen and with an open mind, you’ll learn so much more than you’re expecting. JR Be patient and take your time, be open to endless possibilities and always listen to advice given. It can be quite daunting at first because you often feel you don’t have the skills required to do the job but in time you get to develop these skills and become a lot more confident in your role.

As we celebrate ten years of Ample Power, we are also celebrating the unique heritage that we are so proud of – a combination of legacies that has set us up for where we are now.   Ample Power was founded by husband and wife team Ed and Heidi Spragg whose vision was to create a company that provides commercial construction, civil engineering, refurbishment and maintenance work both locally and nationally.   “Our anniversary is not just about us - it is a tribute to all those who have been a part of our remarkable journey, especially the team members who shape the very essence of Ample Power on a daily basis,” said Managing Director Ed Spragg.   The team have delivered a wide range of successful projects ranging from our long-standing association with Ford, Nissan, Vauxhall, and Omoda, to new bespoke projects across the UK.   As we move into our second decade our commitment to sustained development and expansion remains strong. We intend to grow our portfolio of projects across a diverse range of sectors nationwide and we are continuing to develop our workforce building a skilled and enthusiastic team of experts.

Companies that invest in the growth and wellbeing of their employees are those that have a competitive advantage. They are able to move forward with confidence secure in the knowledge that their risks are minimised.   Safety matters in all aspects of industry and it is the responsibility of the leadership team to reinforce the importance of a safe environment and keep reminding employees of the potential health risks regularly.   At Ample Power’s recent health and safety training day HSEQ Manager Steve Challis, shared the latest business and safety updates as well as information on new projects, stressing the importance of maintaining the company’s approach to ensuring everyone goes home safe.   “Safety training shouldn’t be a one-off exercise,” said Steve. “We all forget information over time and continuous training helps embed good habits so that safety at work becomes habitual.”   Among the topics covered were working at height and lone working.   “It’s easy to forget what we’ve learned in the past, particularly when we are on site and really busy but by reiterating the potential dangers around employees working on their own or at height should not be overlooked. It is just a matter of reminding team members to check on their colleagues regularly to ensure they are safe,” said Steve.   A lot of time was spent in discussion around good housekeeping while on site and the importance of site inductions and daily briefings.   “As a company we are very strict on maintaining a clean, organised, and safe work environment through practices such as regular cleaning, proper storage, and clear walkways. Our site teams are very conscious of the need to ensure everyone on site complies with our standards,” said Steve.   Ongoing training ensures that employees stay up to date with the latest health and safety requirements. It also helps develop a sustainable habit of awareness in their roles and responsibilities to maintain a safe working environment.