Oliver Ross

Employer: Myenergi

Job title: Product design and development engineer degree apprentice

Course: BEng Mechanical Manufacture degree apprenticeship

What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?

As a kid I loved solving puzzles and building things using Lego. I’ve always liked coming up with my own ideas to make things better and more functional. A few years ago we got a 3D printer at home and I started printing things as a hobby, using free computer-aided design (CAD) software online. I remember printing parts to help build our camper van, designing a few keyrings for friends, and my own fidget toy.
At the same time, I became increasingly interested in sustainability and the role engineering plays in addressing environmental challenges. I am motivated by the opportunity to create solutions that have a positive impact on both people and the planet.
These experiences made me realise that engineering is the perfect fit for me. I find it rewarding to create things that solve problems and make life a little easier for people.

Why did an apprenticeship appeal to you? 

I was already working for Myenergi, one of the biggest renewables companies in Lincolnshire. I was part of the team manufacturing electric vehicle chargers, solar energy diverters when I saw an advert for a degree apprenticeship in product design. I was constantly coming up with ideas and designing ways to improve things and the apprenticeship seemed like the perfect opportunity to develop those skills further,  so I applied and got onto the course.

My goal has always been to earn a degree and eventually work towards becoming chartered (CEng), and maybe even pursue a PhD or EngD later on. By joining the apprenticeship, I’m not only studying for my degree, I’m also building up the years of practical experience needed for a CEng at the same time. I’m gaining real industry skills, hands-on project experience and on‑the‑job training, which means I’m developing as a professional engineer rather than just a student on a course.

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

From the second I started this apprenticeship in design, I learnt how to improve manufacturability, streamline assembly, and make design changes that lead to a better, more efficient final product. I used to build them, and now I'm designing them.  

My studies in engineering mathematics and mechanics have improved my problem-solving skills, and my work in automation and manufacturing has deepened my understanding of engineering processes and technologies. Through design and materials modules, I have learned to develop efficient, reliable products and to select appropriate materials for various applications. Additionally, professional engineering and sustainability modules have increased my awareness of ethical and sustainable practices and environmental responsibility, establishing a strong foundation for a career in the renewable energy sector

One of the biggest things I’ve learned on the apprenticeship is adaptability. When you're in product design nothing’s right first time, but through prototype testing you can make changes to create a great product. It's rewarding seeing the products end up on sale. We all work really hard as a team and it feels good to see the difference we have made.

By gaining experience in both concept development and testing, I’m learning how designs should perform in the real world. It helps me understand what works, what doesn’t, and gives me ideas for design features I need to consider in future projects. 

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

One of the best things about training at the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre is the huge network you get access to. The AMRC Training Centre sits right in the middle of a world‑leading manufacturing cluster, surrounded by major companies like Rolls‑Royce and McLaren Automotive, all of which are part of the AMRC’s industrial partnership network.

Being in that environment honestly feels like stepping into the real engineering world. You’re learning alongside apprentices and engineers from some of the biggest and most advanced manufacturers out there. It’s amazing for networking, because you meet people from loads of different backgrounds, get to see how other industries work, and talk to people who are actually working on cutting‑edge projects. It makes the whole experience feel more exciting and real — and it definitely pushes you to aim higher and imagine the kind of engineer you want to become.

What do you do in your job at Myenergi?

I now work in product design, where I support the team with CAD modelling and engineering drawings for our suppliers. I’m also involved in design reviews and supplied parts reviews, ensuring parts meet our specification and quality standards, which has helped me understand how different design decisions affect manufacturing. On top of that, I help with 3D printing and carry out various prototype tests to check performance and reliability.

I’m really excited to be able to put my designs into action. My degree apprenticeship is opening those doors already. It’s motivating to see how the skills I’m learning now are preparing me to eventually own design projects from concept right through to production.

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

If you’re thinking about an apprenticeship, go for it. You’ll learn more, grow faster, and build a network that will push you forward in your career. An apprenticeship opens so many doors, you gain real industry experience while earning a qualification, and that combination is incredibly valuable. 

One of the best parts is that you’re surrounded by people who are in the same situation as you, but working in completely different industries. You get to share experiences, compare challenges, and talk about how what you’re learning applies to your job. Those conversations help you understand the wider engineering world, and they make the whole learning experience feel more relevant and exciting.

An apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity, although it does require commitment and good time management to balance work and study. The effort you put in is well worth it, as you gain practical skills, real industry experience, and a qualification at the same time. These experiences help you grow quickly, develop into a professional engineer, and set you up for long-term success in your career.