The future is bright for electrical apprentice Archie Austin, who says he has landed his dream job with a Telford company.

The 17-year-old, a former pupil of Charlton School in Wellington, has joined Voltium Electrical Services after impressing the company on a series of ‘taster’ days.

“Ever since I did my work experience in year 10, I knew I wanted to work in a trade,” says Archie. “I did my level two electrical installation course at Telford College, and the intention was always to move onto an apprenticeship after that.

“I’m delighted to be here at Voltium; I’m really enjoying the job and feel like I’m treated as part of the team.

“Working for a smaller business like this gives you chance to get involved in all aspects of the day-to-day operation – the owners have been brilliant with me, and really helpful.”

Archie, who is studying his apprenticeship through Telford College, has been involved in a wide range of installation projects, including outdoor lighting in Ironbridge.

When he turns 18 he hopes to begin work on some of the company’s projects in local prisons.

“The Telford College studies are going well, and I’m finding it easy to learn, and apply what I’m learning to my job,” he says.

Voltium directors Matthew Hicks and Jake Jones say: “Archie’s commitment, attitude and willingness to learn have been outstanding, and it’s amazing to see how far he’s come already.”

As far as the future goes, Archie says he is hoping to remain with Dawley-based Voltium after completing his apprenticeship.

“I’m very happy here, and would like to stay and progress my career – then possibly some time further in the future I’d like to start my own business.”

In recognition of his hard work in the run-up to Christmas, Voltium presented Archie with a Wera advent calendar – described by the owners as ‘a little something to recognise the effort he puts in every single day’.

Voltium launched a new renewable energy division last year after Matthew and Jake completed a training course at Telford College.

They enrolled on a Solar PV and Electrical Energy Storage course at the Wellington campus – passing with flying colours.

The skills and expertise gained led to the launch of a new division called Voltium Renewables, delivering cutting-edge renewable energy solutions designed to reduce carbon footprints and support a more sustainable future.

Jake and Matthew both have a long-standing connection with Telford College, having each completed their own electrical apprenticeships there.

They say the technical knowledge and guidance they received provided the foundation for establishing and growing their jointly-run electrical services company, which continues to expand in capability, size, and reputation.

Are you looking to start an apprenticeship? Contact our team at apprentices@telfordcollege.ac.ukto start your career.