In the first of a series of features, we spoke to Trainee Design Technician Alex Davies about the apprentice scheme at Bennett Architectural Aluminium.
Name: Alex Davies
Role: Trainee Design Technician
How did you first hear about Bennett Architectural?
I first heard about Bennetts when I was preparing for work experience in Year 10 in High School. I attended Bennett Architectural in the design team for the full 2 weeks of work experience and thoroughly enjoyed it.
I kept in touch with Paul (Design Manager) and then when I finished High School in 2014 I applied to be an apprentice at Bennetts. The company accepted and I completed a 2 Year college course with the company on day release basis at South Cheshire College.
What were your first impressions of the working environment?
When I first came to the company for work experience I was very nervous as this was my first time in a professional environment, but it didn’t take long for me to feel a part of the team. I believe this was because that not only is it a very professional and well organised working environment but also because of the friendly relationships between each of the team members.
When I later came back to the company to start my apprenticeship I recognised that this environment hadn’t changed and was as welcoming as it was before.
Tell us about some of the projects you’ve worked on so far?
Because of me being mostly involved in the Processing side of the design team as part of my training, I can work on a variety of projects. My role predominantly consists of me going into the drawings made by other designers and pulling the details apart so that various materials can be scheduled and sent off for Fabrication.
Since I started at Bennett Architectural three years ago I can see that the company is taking on ever more prestigious projects such as Birmingham Conservatoire, New Era Sheffield, Meadowhall Shopping Centre, and ABCAM.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy being able to work on complex projects that require you to envisage the end-product in more detail. This mostly happens when I schedule complex brackets, pressings and Panels.
I also enjoy the working environment, where everyone can get on with each other while also being able to get on with their work in a professional manner.
Look out for our next apprentice feature soon with a member of the Fabrication team.
