An engineer from food giant Müller says he is relishing the opportunity to progress his career by taking degree‑level qualifications at Telford College.

Tomas Kelly is originally from Anglesey but has now moved with his family to Shropshire after taking a job with Müller in Market Drayton.

The 33‑year‑old works as an Automation Engineer and has recently taken on additional project engineering responsibilities – prompting a need to broaden his skills.

He said: “I did an apprenticeship at the Wylfa nuclear power station on Anglesey, but that was 11 years ago, so coming back into education was a big step for me.

“Telford College staff really supported me, though, and it’s been a really good experience. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it.”

After completing an HNC in engineering at the college’s Wellington campus, Tomas has now returned to study for an HND – taking him one step closer to a full degree.

Telford College’s HND engineering programme covers essential knowledge for all engineers, including engineering design, mathematics, science, and the management of professional engineering projects.

Students can also choose specialist units to deepen their understanding of electrical, electronic, or mechanical engineering. The course is delivered one full day per week over two years.

Tomas said: “With my step up into the projects role, there is no doubt that the HNC has been really beneficial for me, especially around mechanical principles, which I wasn’t taught as part of my apprenticeship.

“So far on the HND course, I’ve particularly enjoyed learning how programmable logic control systems actually work beneath the surface.

“I’m especially interested in the mathematical and design principles behind loop control, understanding how the logic is structured, how signals are processed, and how the system maintains stable and efficient operation.

“Exploring the theory behind control behaviour has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the course.”

He added: “Coming to Telford College for these higher‑education courses has been a massive boost for me in my current role, as I look to progress further within the Müller organisation.”