National Apprenticeship Week 2026: How G&H Apprentices are Building Future Engineering Careers

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from 9 – 15 February 2026, we're celebrating the achievements and experiences of our apprentices, who play a vital role in driving innovation and technical excellence at G&H. We offer a range of apprenticeships at our Torquay, UK, facility, providing opportunities for hands-on experience, exposure to cutting-edge engineering projects, and professional and personal growth.

We recently interviewed four apprentices at different stages of their G&H apprenticeships: Dominic Hartt, Joshua Freeman, Max McGill, and Ollie Hemus. Their experiences highlight how G&H apprenticeships deliver hands-on learning, personal growth, and clear pathways for career advancement.

Q: Why did you choose an apprenticeship over university or another route?

Dominic: I’m not particularly academically inclined, so the idea of going to university and sitting in front of a whiteboard taking notes every day wasn’t for me. I much prefer a practical, hands-on approach to learning. Although apprenticeships still include an academic element, I found it much better to learn in a way that suits me rather than having it forced on me.

Joshua: I chose an apprenticeship because I enjoy being hands-on at work, earning money while learning, and avoiding student debt. The idea of gaining real experience while being paid really appealed to me compared to going to university.

Max: I did try university first, but I realised it wasn’t for me. After leaving, I started looking into apprenticeships because a more hands-on approach felt like a much better fit. In today’s job market, having both real experience and a qualification is important, and an apprenticeship offers exactly that.

Ollie: I preferred an apprenticeship because it’s more in-depth and gives you a head start in the industry. You’re working alongside knowledgeable people who already have experience in the field, which makes a huge difference. I work closely with the NPI (New Product Introduction) team within product engineering, so I get to be involved with new and exciting projects coming into the site.

Q: What new skills have you developed and how have you grown professionally?

Dominic: I’ve developed a strong technical skillset in optics, particularly understanding how fiber optics work, what affects them, and how different components impact light. On a broader level, I’ve gained valuable skills in problem-solving, product and project management, and working within teams made up of people with very different skillsets. It’s been a very insightful experience overall.

Joshua: I’ve developed strong vocal communication, presentation skills, written communication, and teamwork skills. When I first started, I was very introverted, but working closely with different teams has helped me come out of my shell. I’m happy with how much I’ve grown in confidence, and my maths skills have improved massively too.

Max: This apprenticeship has helped me greatly as it was my first role outside of hospitality and retail. Moving into a corporate and technical environment was a big adjustment, but I’ve grown into it well and built a lot of confidence. I now feel far more confident about my career path, and the experience I’ve gained has been invaluable.

Ollie: Since starting, I’ve developed a wide range of technical and professional skills through my time with the business. Professionally, the apprenticeship has given me a strong foot in the door within the engineering industry, allowing me to build the skills and knowledge I need for a long-term career.

Q: What advice would you give to someone thinking about applying?

Dominic: You get an incredible amount of support and guidance throughout the course, and the industry itself is really interesting and niche, often involving cutting-edge work. Having been on the apprenticeship for the past five years, I’ve honestly only seen positives. It’s a great environment to learn, develop, and build a long-term career in something genuinely exciting.

Joshua: If you don’t want to stay in full-time education but still want to gain valuable skills while earning, this route is ideal. You learn so much on the job, especially in a hands-on environment, and it’s a great opportunity for people who want practical experience without academic pressure.

Max: You don’t need to know everything from the start, but you do need an interest in physics and, more importantly, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Everyone is very supportive and will help you along the way, giving you everything you need to succeed.

Ollie: I think an apprenticeship is a very good idea if you want to get into an industry you’re interested in and learn first-hand through hands-on experience. Being on the job allows you to fully understand how things work, rather than learning everything theoretically in a classroom.

Q: Why would you recommend an apprenticeship at G&H?

Dominic: This apprenticeship has given me a career. Before starting, I was working as a barman with very limited progression. Now, I’m pursuing something I genuinely find interesting, with clear goals and stepping stones for where I want to be in the future. It’s been incredibly rewarding, enjoyable, and a great long-term career path.

Joshua: Before starting, I was working in a coffee shop and wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my life. This opportunity opened so many doors for education and career progression. I’d highly recommend an apprenticeship at G&H because you gain real skills, avoid student debt, and get paid to do something you love - without the stress of dissertations or traditional university routes.

Max: I’d recommend an apprenticeship at G&H because they really stand out in how well they look after their apprentices. Your pay progresses in line with non-apprentices, you get one college day a week to focus on learning, and the level of support across the company is excellent. It’s a great environment to learn, grow, and build a career.

Ollie: I’d recommend it because it provides a clear and structured pathway within your chosen industry - especially engineering. There are so many different routes you can take, allowing you to shape a career that suits your interests and goals.