Braintree man proves there's no age limit for changing careers
The 30-year-old completed his apprenticeship last year and is now on the path to a better future
Jack Ransome now works as a linesperson for UK Power Networks and would encourage anyone looking for a career change to consider an apprenticeship
Submitted by UK Power Networks
Jack Ransome, from Braintree, Essex made a career change for the better in his late 20s.
Proving that age is no barrier to securing a better future, Jack secured an apprenticeship in the electricity industry and completed an Experienced Apprenticeship at UK Power Networks, last year.
In the run up to National Apprenticeship Week, dedicated individuals like Jack want to remind Essex residents that it is never too late to learn a new trade.
His employer, UK Power Networks is currently inviting applications for 20 new apprentices, and Jack hopes that others will be inspired to follow in his footsteps.
Jack said: “I had been an electrician for about ten years, initially for a couple of companies and then self-employed, when I saw the experienced apprenticeship come up I was 28.
“It was a slight risk for me as although experienced apprentices are well paid, it was a short-term drop in income but I felt it was the best longer-term option. The main reason for that is I was getting a bit stagnant in my role as an electrician, there was no scope for progression like there is here.
“In my group the age range was about 26 to 40 so we were all a little bit older than a ‘typical’ apprentice, but we all had a strong mechanical knowledge background and could help each other out. We all had different strengths and weaknesses and there was a real feeling of everyone looking out for one another.
“I’ve already spoken to a few friends and advised them to go for the apprenticeship. With the cost of living increasing all the time, it’s important to find a secure job that will reward you if you work hard and perform.
During his apprenticeship, Jack was diagnosed with dyslexia, but the company trainers gave him the support he needed to complete his exams.
Speaking about his diagnosis, he said: “Once I started this apprenticeship I was diagnosed with dyslexia. I had always suspected this, I remember teachers at school telling my Mum it was a possibility, but had never had it confirmed before. The training staff gave me amazing support including extra time to do my exams. Knowing I have dyslexia has helped me understand myself better, and it explains why in the past I found school a bit difficult, so it’s been a positive to find out more about it.”
National Apprenticeship Week has been created to shine a light on the benefits that apprenticeships can bring to individuals, employers and to the wider economy.
UK Power Networks is recruiting for 14 new craft apprentices and six higher apprentices who will play a key role in the transition to Net Zero, as the company enables communities to use low carbon technologies including electric transport and heating.
For more information, visit: http://www.ukpowernetworkscareers.co.uk/
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