National Apprenticeship Week: An Interview With Quality Engineering Apprentice Travis Smith

In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, we spoke to Quality Engineering Apprentice Travis Smith. He spoke about his decision to go down the apprenticeship route and how he has been supported in his apprenticeship journey at Walker Filtration.

What were you doing before your apprenticeship/What attracted you to an apprenticeship?

I started my apprenticeship straight after I left school. Throughout the final year of school, we were taught about the different routes available, such as college, sixth form and apprenticeships. After learning about the benefits of an apprenticeship I decided it was the best route for me. While completing an apprenticeships you are able to gain experience on the job as well as education in your desired industry.

What appealed to you about working for Walker Filtration?

A family relative was already working for Walker Filtration so prior to my apprenticeship I was aware of the business. As I was coming towards the end of my time in school, I started doing some research on different companies offering apprenticeships and Walker Filtration stood out to me. It was clear that they were an established business with clear growth.

What are your main responsibilities as an apprentice?

As a Quality Engineer apprentice my responsibilities include ensuring the quality of products manufactured by ourselves as well as the products we are purchasing from our suppliers. If a potential issue is found it is my responsibility to make a decision on the issue, and if applicable I will raise this with the supplier.

How have Walker Filtration supported you with achieving your professional goals?

Walker Filtration have continually supported me with my goals by allowing me to undergo my Level 3 BTEC in Engineering, as well as allowing me to pursue my HNC in Engineering.

What has been your biggest achievement so far?

My biggest achievement so far in my apprenticeship is assisting in the introduction of ISO-13485, a Medical Devices standard. I did so by implementing systems with my colleagues, such as the recording of Reject Data and Incoming Goods Records.

How has the apprenticeship helped you develop and grow as an individual?

My apprenticeship has allowed me to develop greatly as an individual, I am now a lot more confident when speaking with different employees and suppliers. This benefits me and the business as it means I can now express my opinions on projects and I can raise any road-blocks I think we may encounter, and offer up alternative ways of solving these problems.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship to those looking to start a career in engineering?

I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship to those who are contemplating taking one in engineering, as you are able to receive the education you would get in college, whilst also receiving ‘on the job’ experience.

What is next for you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years time.

After completing my HNC I would like to progress further with my education and undertake a degree in Engineering.