Apprentice engineer Ryan Wherry is aiming high within the bus industry – thanks to training and development provided by Southern Vectis.
The 22-year-old heard about the possibility of an apprenticeship through a government website and signed up to 4 years of work training with the Island’s bus operator.
Ryan said:
“I am two and a half years into my apprenticeship and couldn’t be happier. I’m working as a heavy vehicle fitter and take part in every aspect of mechanical maintenance and repair to keep our fleet on the road.
“I’d always tinkered with motorbikes and other small objects at home – but this field of work was completely alien to me when I started. I soon settled in though. It was a steep learning curve but very rewarding – and I’m still learning every day.”
Ryan applied for an apprenticeship to improve his future prospects by learning a trade.
“I chose Southern Vectis because of its good reputation as a training provider – and everyone seemed friendly and willing to pass on their knowledge.
“I attend college one day a week – receiving an outstanding achievement award last year – and work at Southern Vectis the rest of the time. It’s a good system and means I earn on the job as well as in the classroom.
Article continues below this advertisement “My plan is to progress as far as I can, both in my education and with the company. This has been a good life experience. I am learning a trade that will be with me for life. I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who doesn’t feel university is for them.
“It’s a fantastic way to learn and, unlike further education, you actually get paid to learn.”
For more information about careers at Southern Vectis, visit www.islandbuses.info.
Photographed: Ryan Wherry (centre) with fellow Southern Vectis apprentices Aaron Mitchell (left) and Agris Budzis
