Meet Ella

Apprentice information

Name: Ella Gaskill
Age: 20
Job title: Wastewater Electrical Network Asset Engineer

Apprentice answers

What’s your story - how did you end up applying for an apprenticeship?

When I finished college, my two options were to study a practical course at university, such as 3D design, or to explore the apprenticeship route. Originally, I was looking at an apprenticeship as a domestic electrician with the future plan to become self-employed.

However, I had heard through a friend of a friend, who worked for UU at the time, that UU is a great company to work to for, and that the level of training received in the first year at Bolton, to prepare them for site, was excellent. As well as there being great and easily accessible support network for the entirety of the apprenticeship programme.

What attracted to you to an apprenticeship at your water company instead of somewhere else?

This apprenticeship was initially a ‘Plan B’ when I first applied as I didn’t know much about the job beyond what was described in the job application. I also still envisioned myself as a self-employed domestic electrician in 10 years. However, as the application process progressed, I soon realised that I would much rather be pursing an apprenticeship as an Electrical NAE. As a bonus, the company benefits, starting and ending salary were much better, and I was guaranteed a job at the end of my apprenticeship, so I made this apprenticeship my main focus instead. There is also room for progression within the company, along with many opportunities for personal growth and career development. Connecting the level probe cable to the level control relay, when the sump pump control panel had not yet been connected to the mains supply.

What are you most proud of about your apprenticeship?

My write-ups, personal development, and how I can see that my confidence is starting to improve. As well as the driving experience that working on the wastewater network has given me, as I had only been driving for six months when I started the apprenticeship.

What surprised you most about your apprenticeship?

How much work goes into cleaning people’s wastewater as before this apprenticeship I hadn’t even thought about it.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about their future or starting an apprenticeship?

• If you have a question, just ask. There is a high chance that if you are thinking it, your peers are thinking it too, as you are all learning. If you don’t want to ask in front of the class, write it down and ask at the end of the lesson - just don’t leave your question unanswered.
• To take the time to research the company they are applying to and learn about the experiences of current and past apprentices. Also, find out what the quality of the training is like, as this a major foundation to any apprenticeship, as you are there to learn.
• Considering taking a gap year if you are not sure on your next steps, rather feeling rushed or pressured into following your peers to university. That year can then be spent exploring apprenticeship and university options, as well as gaining relevant experience and knowledge about your chosen path. This preparation will also help
  you during your apprenticeship or degree and strengthen your application process