We visited iconsys, one of the leading automation solution providers in the UK, to see what their apprentices enjoy about their apprenticeship and life at the company.
Based in Stafford Park, Telford, iconsys have a vast portfolio of work in automation, with projects spanning across the world.
They were founded in 1987 and have worked closely with Telford College since the early days. As well as apprenticeships, the college has helpfully provided quality training, including electrical 18th Edition training and ILM levels in leadership and management.
iconsys are also members of Telford College’s engineering and digital skills hubs, which gives a voice to local employers in the industry and insight into what other organisations are doing to grow and evolve.
We spoke to two level 3 engineering technician apprentices, Jack Evans and Ben Morris-Jones, about what they enjoy about their placement at iconsys.
“I’ve always found engineering fascinating.” says Jack. “It’s a fantastic environment to learn in and here I get to earn while I learn some very important skills. I really enjoy working in this team, every work colleague is supportive, and I feel like there are no wrong questions.”
“It’s a real family environment here.” adds former Ercall Wood student Ben. “I get to work on some big and exciting projects here for customers across the globe. I really want to stay on and progress here at iconsys, I really enjoy working here.”
Chris Jessie is currently working as a level 4 engineering manufacturing technician at iconsys, which includes a HND qualification as part of his studies. Joining us from Telford Park School, he originally studied a level 3 engineering vocational programme before starting an apprenticeship.
Chris said: “The people here are some of the best people I’ve ever worked with. As part of my role, I enjoy cutting, making wires and panel wiring – it’s so good to constantly learn new things in my work and expand my knowledge”.
“I feel my apprenticeship is more refined than what I learnt on my vocational course. I love being able to learn while being hands on – I feel it’s better than all the research and written work – I like being able to see results in my work and get things done.”
Milissa Chesters, head of people and culture at iconsys, said: “When looking for a new apprentice, we look for a ‘Teamiconsys’ fit. It is important that our employees are all team players and hold a ‘can do/will do’ attitude.
“We look for talented people who are hungry to learn and grow. We look for apprentices who will be brand ambassadors of iconsys and advocates of our core values of People, Quality Partnerships and Innovation.
“A number of our senior leaders in engineering, including our founding member, Trevor Darrall, have come from an apprenticeship background and see the value of growing up in a company and building strong relationships in the business along the way.
“Apprenticeships are key to ensuring the pipeline of engineers for the future of iconsys. Our apprentices have the opportunity to ‘earn and learn’ as they make choices to move through the business on the many career pathways we have here on offer.
“We are excited about seeing our apprentices grow and learn in a supportive environment, which, in turn, gives them the tools to take control of their careers.”
Chris Field, business development manager said: “Local employers are at the heart of what we offer at Telford College. We want to listen to the needs of companies in our surrounding area and be able to deliver a variety of apprenticeships and training that are going to be meaningful and impactful to the learners and the business.
“To work with a company like iconsys is fantastic – they communicate well and offer insight into what training would benefit their staff. They also offer fantastic opportunities to people looking to develop their careers which is what apprenticeships are so key for.
“Without companies like iconsys there wouldn’t be opportunities for people developing their skills within the engineering field and they are a company that set a fantastic example in how to develop their staff.”
Have you got what it takes to succeed in an apprenticeship in engineering? Apply now.
Do you have a business and want to support one of our talented apprentice candidates, futureproofing your workforce? Contact our apprenticeship team at apprentices@telfordcollege.ac.uk or call 01952 642200.
