David, Head of Professional Development – Engineering Academy, became a Cable Jointing Apprentice in 1983 and later joined E.ON as a Graduate Engineer in 1991. He currently leads a team of people looking after E.ON UK apprenticeship programmes, development of new academic qualifications, professional engineering development and engineering graduates. He is presently developing a new strategy on how the company develops its engineers going forward through   professional development and progression.

During his 3 ½ year apprenticeship, David, completed various courses as well as a City and Guilds qualification. The reason he became an apprentice was due to it being an opportunity that enabled you to ‘earn while you learn’. His apprenticeship offered a chance to gain invaluable experience that stood him in good stead for progression as can be seen in the list of jobs he has undertaken:

• Electrical Engineer
• Project Manager
• Team Leader
• Area Manager
• Delivery Centre Manager
• Resource and Strategy Manager
• Academic Partnerships Project Manager
• Stakeholder and Product Development Manager

When asked why he thinks E.ON have an apprenticeship scheme he stated that ‘training apprentices is one of the best ways to develop the talent the company needs for the future, whether that be for growth or attrition. We have a comprehensive training programme which is constantly monitored and reviewed ensuring quality throughout the apprenticeship. Apprentices provide visibility to the business of up and coming talent enabling clearer and longer term resource planning.’