In the UK it is National Apprenticeships Week, and we’re celebrating the hard work and achievements of three Menzies apprentices: Caroline English, Mariusz Meca and Derrick Rabey.

Caroline English, Planning and Training Manager, is undertaking an apprenticeship in Business Improvement. Based in Manchester, she’s supported by training provider TheLightBulb as she learns new skills and puts them into practice at work.

“I wanted to build my knowledge and gain additional skills to assist me in my role as a planner. With the apprenticeship being about business improvement techniques I thought it would fit well because planning is about always looking for ways to improve the current plans and reduce costs”.

Caroline’s experience has been affected by the pandemic but she has quickly adapted; “When coronavirus hit, our face to face meetings had to stop and we picked it up on Microsoft Teams, this was quite challenging at first but now I prefer it, we get to see our tutor more often and it’s much easer than having to travel around the country to meet up. I didn’t realise how much time it would take in addition to my normal job, but it has been worth it.”

Taking part in an apprenticeship is an opportunity to learn new skills, and also to learn about yourself. Caroline continues; “I have learnt that it’s ok to ask for help and sharing experiences can help other people who have similar issues but maybe don’t want to speak up. I’ve also learnt to use my strengths, to strengthen my weaknesses.”

As well as boosting her confidence, Caroline has enjoyed gaining new knowledge and making a difference to the way the Manchester station operates. “I was really surprised at how much difference I can make. Even a small change can have a huge impact to the business. It’s also good to be a student and be able to get student discount which was an unexpected perk!”

Your chance to work, earn and learn
Menzies’ participation in apprenticeships in the UK is part of our overall commitment to supporting you in your personal and professional development. Apprenticeships are an opportunity for you to learn new skills, expand your current skills and gain a qualification.

If you’re an employee based in the UK and interested in becoming an apprentice, find out more from apprenticeships@menziesaviation.com.