Matt Wogan | Tutor

Matt Wogan, fabrication and welding trainer.

Q. What’s your career background? 

I did an apprenticeship in welding here at the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre in 2017. Then I worked in the industry for a few years, before getting this job in 2023. Now I teach people on the course that I was once an apprentice on.

Q. What made you want to work at the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre?

I remembered how much I enjoyed my time at the AMRC Training Centre, and how inspiring my trainer had been. When you’re 16 or 17 you’re looking for a role model, and listening to him talk about his career made me feel confident in choosing welding.

I wanted to return to this environment and inspire the next generation of apprentices. 

Q. What does the day-to-day job look like for you? 

I work in the welding workshop so I spend most of my time doing practical training. No day is the same, but generally in the morning I gather the students for a quick toolbox talk, where we discuss what we’re doing that day and they can ask any questions. Then for the rest of the day they work on their projects and I float around the workshop helping where needed, giving one-on-one practical training and demonstrations of fabrication techniques. 

Q. Advanced manufacturing is moving so fast with automation, robotics, and net-zero initiatives. How does the AMRC Training Centre support you to keep your own skills at the cutting edge?

I go on numerous visits to the employers we work with, where I see the latest technology in action. I’ve also been to the MACH trade show twice, where global companies showcase their latest tech and innovation. 

In the workshop I can work on my own projects to keep my skills up to date, and the centre also offers continuing professional development (CPD) courses.

Q. What do your apprentices like the most about learning in our purpose-built facility?

Our welding workshop is of a good standard, but for me the greatest benefit they get is from the experienced trainers. We put a lot of effort in to share our knowledge and the apprentices really appreciate that.

Q. We work with massive global powerhouses like McLaren and Rolls-Royce, as well as local SMEs. What’s it like seeing an apprentice you trained go on to make a direct impact at companies?

I love visiting our apprentices in the workplace. It's rewarding to see where they work and have them give me tours of their factory, showing me their work and how much they’re enjoying it.

I’m really proud of our students. This year two of the metal fabrication apprentices entered the World Skills competition, which is like the Olympics for tradespeople. They dealt with the pressure brilliantly and came first and second in their category. That was great to see.

Q. What is the most rewarding part of working here?

I love watching the apprentices develop, not just as welders but as people. When they come here, they’re at that stage in life where they’re growing up and starting to get stuck into life — going on their first holidays, getting their first cars. 

It’s great seeing young people get the chance of a decent paying apprenticeship, and taking it by the horns to really make something of themselves.