From day one to now: How our apprentices are growing with TEAMCo

Apprentices play a vital role in shaping the future of any organisation. They bring fresh perspectives, curiosity, and a willingness to learn, while developing the practical skills that strengthen the workforce for years to come. Investing in apprentices is an investment in long-term growth, innovation, and sustainability. For National Apprenticeship week, we decided to interview our apprentices to gauge their views on how their apprenticeships have helped them boost their confidence, skills, and gain valuable industry experience.

Growth That Goes Beyond the Job Description

Over the past 2 years, our apprentices’ journeys have evolved from learning core fundamentals to contributing meaningfully to real business projects. For many, the shift has been transformational, moving from observing and learning the basics to becoming trusted contributors involved in planning, problem-solving, and decision-making.

One apprentice described the experience perfectly:

“An apprenticeship isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about learning how to find them, one challenge at a time.” 

Gelmis Bartusas, Apprentice IT Technician

Another highlighted how real-world experience has brought their knowledge to life:

“There is no substitute for real experience in the field of IT.” 

Marce Rickets, Apprentice IT Technician

Taking Ownership and Making an Impact

A consistent theme across every response was pride in the responsibility they’ve taken on. From software implementation to infrastructure design, our apprentices are already making a tangible difference across the business.

Projects they’ve led or contributed to include:

• Transitioning internal systems to improve collaboration and efficiency
• Implementing and developing software platforms such as Monday.com
• Designing network environments and supporting large-scale device deployments
• Researching and proposing new internal communication platforms
• Supporting infrastructure, cloud, and security systems

These experiences don’t just build technical skill — they build ownership, accountability, and professional confidence.

Confidence: The Skill That Grew the Most
When asked what had developed the most, confidence was the clear winner.

Whether presenting to colleagues, troubleshooting live issues, or leading projects, each apprentice described noticeable personal growth. Several reflected on how stepping into uncomfortable situations like delivering presentations or supporting users one-to-one accelerated their development.

One apprentice shared:

“Compared to when I first joined TEAMCo to now, I have grown so much confidence thanks to my colleagues.” 

- Katherine Taylor, Junior Project Manager 

Another explained how their thinking has evolved:

“I’ve learned to slow down, gather the right information, and work through problems methodically instead of jumping straight to quick fixes.” 

- Glen Ryan, Apprentice IT Technician

Challenges That Spark Growth
Growth rarely happens inside a comfort zone,  and our apprentices have embraced that reality. From configuring complex systems and managing infrastructure projects to setting up new facilities, they’ve taken on challenges that required planning, adaptability, and resilience.

These experiences taught them:

• The value of preparation and testing
• How systems interact behind the scenes
• The importance of clear communication
• And why teamwork is essential for success
   

The Power of Support and Mentorship
Every apprentice highlighted the same success factor: their team.

Having experienced colleagues to guide, challenge, and support them has been instrumental in building both competence and confidence. Knowing they can ask questions, sense-check ideas, and learn from others’ experience has helped them grow faster and take on more responsibility.

As one apprentice put it:

"Being trusted to contribute to real projects, share ideas openly, and receive constructive feedback has helped me grow both technically and professionally."

Glen Ryan, Apprentice IT Technician

Advice for Future Apprentices
When asked what advice they would give someone considering an apprenticeship, the response was unanimous: go for it.

Their reflections emphasised that apprenticeships aren’t about already knowing everything, they’re about curiosity, effort, and willingness to learn.

Some of their advice included:

“Don’t underestimate yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

Glen Ryan, Apprentice IT Technician

“Problems will always arise, but each challenge is an opportunity to learn.”

Gelmis Bartusas, Apprentice IT Technician 

“It has been the perfect foundation to learn and improve.”

Katherine Taylor, Junior Project Manager 

Looking Ahead
Our apprentices’ stories show that an apprenticeship is far more than a training programme, it’s a launchpad for growth, confidence, and meaningful career development. From day one to now, they’ve proven what can happen when ambition meets opportunity and support.

If you’d like to find out more about our apprenticeship opportunities or are interested in becoming a TEAMCo invigilator, please get in touch: [email protected]