National Apprenticeship Week 2025

Charlie: Learning on the Job and Building a Career

We recently visited Thursfield School, where our Apprentice Service Engineer, Charlie, was working on a new heating system. He shared how hands-on experience is shaping his future and why he believes an apprenticeship was the right choice for him.

“Everyone wants you to be the best – no one’s leaving you behind.”

Charlie’s experience reflects the strong support system within our team, ensuring apprentices gain practical skills, real-world experience, and the confidence to build their careers in building services engineering.

Our video interview with Charlie is available on LinkedIn.

Liam: Gaining Hands-On Experience in HVAC

Since joining Ford Mainwaring in August, Liam has been working across the West Midlands, gaining experience on planned and reactive maintenance jobs. His enthusiasm and dedication have already made a strong impression on both colleagues and customers.

“Since starting at Ford Mainwaring, I have been involved in a wide range of HVAC jobs, getting hands-on experience. The mix of working on-site and studying at Salford College has been invaluable for developing my skills. I am constantly learning new things and applying them in a real-world setting.

“I believe apprenticeships are the best way to enter the industry because you are not just learning from a book – you are actually doing the job. The team here has been incredibly supportive, and I am excited to continue developing my career.”

Mitch: Making an Impact on Secure Sites

Mitch joined Ford Mainwaring in August 2023 with a strong enthusiasm for building services engineering, particularly in secure environments such as prisons. Since then, he has gained hands-on experience across multiple sites in Wakefield, Hertfordshire, Birmingham, Yorkshire, and beyond, supporting Amey’s National Highways sites with planned and remedial maintenance.

He’s made a great impression on our customers, too!

“Mitch is always polite, professional, and eager to learn. His knowledge is improving rapidly, and his skill set is growing. Building users have even commented on how professional and well-informed he is. He is a pleasure to have on-site, and with his work ethic, he has a great future ahead.”

Mitch is particularly looking forward to when he turns 18 and will be able to work at prison sites. With the progress he has already made, his future in the industry looks very promising!

Looking Ahead

Apprenticeships play a crucial role in developing the next generation of Building Services Engineers and we are proud to invest in young talent.

If you are interested in an apprenticeship in building services engineering, keep an eye on our careers page for upcoming opportunities!