National Apprenticeship Week – celebrating assistant production manager, Joe Hatfield

Here at Thurston Group, we love to champion apprenticeships as a way of introducing people to the offsite manufacturing industry through a balance of education and work experience.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week (10^th – 16^th February), we’re highlighting how apprenticeship roles can play a huge part in job progression, by talking to Joe Hatfield, our assistant production manager.

Joe has been with us for four years, completing multiple qualifications in his time here – including an ILM Level 3 Management of People qualification, a Level 2 Management of Mental Health in the Workplace qualification, and a Level 5 CMI Operational & Departmental Management qualification.

Joe has spoken about the support he received from Thurston during his course, and how both younger and older people can make the most of apprenticeship opportunities.

What support did you receive from Thurston throughout your apprenticeship?

“I had numerous one-to-one sessions with my line manager to discuss my progression through the course and always felt like they really wanted to ensure that not only my progression and development was on track, but also that the support they were giving me enabled me to progress in an organic way. Also, the team allowed the time for me to complete my apprenticeship within working hours.”

What are the biggest challenges you faced in your apprenticeship, and what did you learn?

“Putting the theory into practice. A lot of the subjects covered were models and principles. It was then how I took those methodologies and put them into practice through my own style. Working within a manufacturing environment is certainly ideal and beneficial in applying the principal into the real world.”

What was the most rewarding moment of your apprenticeship?

“Seeing the positive difference in my performance which was a real confidence booster, I feel like I am far more capable and confident when things are in my control.”

How has your apprenticeship helped you in your role now?

“It has given me the tools to be comfortable in my new management role and the confidence that I know how the theoretical side of management works, and not just the practical. Development is continuous and I am really enjoying revisiting past modules and re-applying them in different ways as I learn new skills”

How do you feel those going into apprenticeships, can make the most out of their opportunity?

“I believe young people going into apprenticeships are completely different to senior figures doing them, as younger people have a fresh start at something new. Older people feel like it’s a step backwards, when in reality it’s putting the theoretical success alongside the career success and adding more strings to your bow.”

Connect with Joe on LinkedIn here.