In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, we’re excited to share an update on our engineering technician apprentice, Eddy. Since joining Unifabs in March 2022, Eddy has made remarkable progress in developing his skills and expertise. After completing his initial manufacturing apprenticeship with us, he is now continuing his journey with Unifabs Academy, undertaking an Engineering Technician apprenticeship.
Presently, Eddy’s role involves overseeing the robot welders—programming them for new tasks, and refining existing programmes to enhance efficiency and quality. Read on as he shares his first-hand account of what day-to-day life is like on an Engineering Technician apprenticeship at Unifabs Academy, and reflects on his experiences so far.
Eddy Moore
Level 3 Engineering Technician Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship provider: Train’d Up, Birmingham
Morning routine: Getting started
My day usually starts around 7:00 or 7:30 am. One of my first tasks is checking the alignment of the robot torch – a crucial step to ensure the best possible welds. Precision is everything in engineering, so getting this right sets the tone for the rest of the day.
After that, I review the output from the night shift. If any adjustments are required, I make the necessary changes to improve the weld programmes and ensure that everything runs smoothly. I particularly enjoy this part of the job because it challenges me to analyse and problem-solve, with even the smallest tweak having a significant impact on production quality.
Mid-morning: Problem-solving and learning
Much of my morning is spent working on jobs for one of our agricultural machinery customers and improving existing setups. I also fabricate new jigs for the robot welder. One of the best aspects of my engineering technician apprenticeship is working closely with Lukas Gruba, an experienced operator of the robot welding cells. His guidance has been invaluable; whenever I encounter an issue, he’s always there to help me work through it, and I constantly pick up new skills from him.
Lunch break: A chance to recharge
Lunch provides a welcome opportunity to step away, recharge, and catch up with colleagues. In this role you are on your feet for much of the day and it can be quite physical, so it’s good to rest and reset for the afternoon ahead.
Afternoon: Hands-on work and refinement
After lunch, I return to overseeing the robot welders, ensuring everything continues to run smoothly. A major part of my role involves analysing the work produced and tweaking the programmes as needed.
I enjoy the hands-on aspect of my apprenticeship because I can see the results of my work in real time. Every small adjustment improves efficiency and quality, which is incredibly rewarding.
End of the day: Wrapping up and reflecting
Before finishing for the day, I review what’s been completed, make any final changes, and plan for tomorrow. Over time, I’ve taken on more responsibility, and it’s truly satisfying to see how much I’ve progressed since joining Unifabs.
Eddy’s engineering technician apprenticeship journey so far
When I first joined, my focus was on learning how to operate the press brake, understanding various tools, and developing my welding and fabrication skills. Now, I’m responsible for ensuring the robot welders operate correctly and produce high-quality work. It’s been a steep learning curve, but I have enjoyed every step.
My goal is to complete my apprenticeship and secure a full-time role at Unifabs. Ultimately, I want to become a skilled engineer with a broad range of expertise that I can execute to a high standard.
Developing skills for the future
Throughout my engineering technician apprenticeship, I have learned far more than just technical skills. I have gained experience in safe working practices, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. The training has shown me how to apply engineering principles to real-world challenges, work effectively as part of a team, and consistently meet high safety and quality standards.
I’ve also discovered that continuous improvement is key – whether it’s refining a weld programme, collaborating with colleagues, or developing my own professional skills, there is always something new to learn.
If you’re not sure, ask!
Eddy’s advice for apprentices
The best advice I can offer is to ask if you’re not sure of something. There’s so much to learn, and no one expects you to know everything straight away. Asking questions and learning from experienced colleagues is the best way to develop your skills.
Looking ahead
My daily focus is on producing as many high-quality parts as possible, making necessary adjustments along the way, and ensuring that the robots operate efficiently. It’s a rewarding role, and I’m excited to continue learning and growing in my position.
Reflecting on my journey so far, I can truly see how much I have grown since joining Unifabs. It’s been a fantastic experience, and I look forward to discovering where this path takes me next. If you’re considering an apprenticeship, I would definitely recommend it – you gain real experience, learn from professionals, and set yourself up for a brilliant career.
Are you ready to kick-start your career?
We’re currently recruiting for our next intake of Level 3 Metal Fabricator apprentices. Visit our manufacturing apprenticeships page to find out more and apply for the 2025 intake today!
