Harry Britton

Employer: BriTec
Job title: Apprentice — design technician
Studying: BEng in Manufacturing Technology degree apprenticeship

Q. Who inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?

My passion for engineering is rooted in my upbringing. My father was an aerospace engineer in Hong Kong. Ever since I could reach to see into the bonnet of a car I was helping him fix engines. When other kids were spending their weekends at theme parks, I was with my dad in aircraft hangars looking at jet engines. 

My dad started his career as an apprentice and rose through the ranks to become a world-renowned engineer. Seeing his dedication was a huge influence on me. After his passing when I was 17, I wanted to continue his legacy by following in his footsteps.

Q. Why did an apprenticeship appeal to you? 

An apprenticeship gives stability and direction. It allows me to maintain a career while studying, with hands-on learning that I can immediately apply to my work.

I completed a Level 3 apprenticeship before starting this course. At the end of it I’ll have a degree and seven years of experience. I’m only 25, so I’ll be ahead of other people my age. 

Looking ahead, my goal is to become a chartered engineer. I believe an apprenticeship is the only path that allows for this level of development so quickly, due to the real industry experience you get. Ultimately I want to lead the development of new solutions and try to make the world a better place.

Q. How is your apprenticeship giving you the skills and knowledge you need for a rewarding career?

My degree apprenticeship in manufacturing technology is all about developing you as a professional. I’m learning industry-standard computer-aided design (CAD) software and processes which are all directly relevant to my work. I’ll learn something one day at the AMRC Training Centre, and the next day I’ll be using it at work. 

It means my company doesn't have to invest so much time in training me, as I learn everything I need on the course.

Q. What is the best part about doing an apprenticeship at the AMRC Training Centre? 

It's been positive from the start. The trainers are unbelievably supportive. Every problem I've had, they've helped me to solve. Every question I ask, they can answer. They encourage you to push yourself. 

The AMRC Training Centre is the place to go if you want to be an engineer. It's the whole environment — there's even a Formula 1 car in the reception. The workshop is full of machines as far as the eye can see, all well-maintained. You can tell a lot of effort has been put into making the perfect training environment, and it makes you want to put in the effort as well. I’m also enjoying living in Sheffield — everyone’s so friendly.

Q. What do you do in your job at BriTec?

We’re a small business making radiation protection for healthcare professionals treating cancer patients. We supply hospitals with equipment such as lead-lined units and shielding for syringes. I am currently working on standardising our hundreds of products to grow the business.

When my father died, I felt driven to apply my skills to help others. Working as a design engineer in the world of cancer treatment and research, I get to turn my hobby into life-saving work. 

I became an engineer because it’s what I’m good at, but the AMRC Training Centre and BriTec are giving me the opportunity and the tools to actually change the world with those skills.

Q. What advice would you give to other people looking to do an apprenticeship?

Just do it. There's nothing to hold you back. It’s hard work, but at the end you come out with a degree and years of experience.