In celebration of Apprenticeship Week 2023, we wanted to introduce our Engineering Apprentice at RiverRidge, Joel McBurney. Joel has been a great addition to our team since he joined us, and we’re looking forward to seeing how his career develops as a result of his apprenticeship! Find out more about Joel and his role within RiverRidge below.
When did you begin your apprenticeship with RiverRidge?
I started my apprenticeship with RiverRidge back in October 2022.
How did you secure your apprenticeship with RiverRidge?
I applied for the Engineering Apprenticeship and was shortlisted for the opportunity, before going through the recruitment process.
What has been your experience to date?
I’ve had a really good experience so far at RiverRidge. Each day is different with a variety of tasks to undertake, but you fall into a routine.
What does a typical day involve?
Daily tasks can vary from welding (including plastic welding), working closely with and assisting my colleagues when required, driving the forklift for movements, sorting bins, and if required, collecting and moving goods too.
What is the best thing about an apprenticeship with RiverRidge?
I like that I get a lot of support from management and my work colleagues, and everyone in the company is friendly. I get to work with, and meet a lot of new people from across all of RiverRidge’s sites, which I enjoy too.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship with RiverRidge?
Yes, I would definitely encourage anyone who is thinking of undertaking an apprenticeship to enquire about or apply for one at RiverRidge.
How will your apprenticeship benefit you in your future career?
The skills and experience I am gaining from my apprenticeship are very varied and I’m gaining knowledge that I will be able to bring with me throughout my career, so it will be really beneficial to me in the future. I’m hopeful that this apprenticeship will help me to climb the ladder within RiverRidge and create a successful career in the industry.
At the moment, I am focussed on developing the skills that are required of me to complete my apprenticeship, but there are lots of opportunities within RiverRidge to learn and develop other skills and qualifications within the company and hope to avail of those down the line too.
Where would you like to be in five years’ time?
I would like to become more involved in the plant, keep progressing my knowledge to help establish a successful career that would ultimately help me to secure a management position with the company. Ideally, I would like to be working within the maintenance or engineering field.
What made you apply for RiverRidge for your apprenticeship?
I had been subcontracted into RiverRidge the previous year by another company, which I really enjoyed. It was a great company to work with so when the opportunity came up, I went for it.
What was your first impression of RiverRidge?
It was really good. All the people I met were friendly and easy to get on with.
What has been your biggest achievement since starting your apprenticeship?
Implementing and developing the knowledge that I have learnt from my apprenticeship on welding and fabrication into my daily job.
What has been your biggest challenge since starting your apprenticeship?
Luckily I haven’t faced many challenges so far, however I am pretty laid back, so I don’t let small things bother me. I enjoy coming into work every day and continuing with my development.
Thank you, Joel!
If you are interested in undertaking an apprenticeship opportunity with RiverRidge in the future, please get in touch with our team today by calling 028 95 313 313 or email hr@riverridge.co.uk.
