Profile: A hands-on approach to career progression
Olivia McLaughlin chose an apprenticeship over university and believes vocational learning will fast-track her career in engineering.
When 19-year-old Olivia McLaughlin finished her A-Levels in Chemistry, Design Technology and Maths, she knew exactly what career path she wanted to take.
Whilst many would have opted for university, the former Newport Girls High pupil sought an apprenticeship that would appeal to her ‘practical side’.
It has been a wise move, with the 19-year-old already snapped up by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) and currently undertaking a Level 4 Manufacturing Engineering Apprenticeship at In-Comm Training.
Equivalent to an HNC, this involves four days of hands-on experience in the design and manufacturing operations of RBSL and then one day per week of theoretical learning at the training provider’s state-of-the-art facility in Telford.
“My dad was an engineer and I’ve always thrown myself into fixing things around the home, so a career in industry seemed a natural choice” said McLaughlin.
“Tracey Wells, my Design Technology teacher, has also been an inspiration and when I was nervous about the prospect of working in a male dominated industry, she told me to just go for it as she knew I was more than good enough to hold my own.”
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