Charlie Veazey

I’ve always had an interest in the mechanical side of things which is why I chose the programme. I am very practical and hands on, give me job and I don’t mind doing it - I’ll try anything once. My Dad used to work in the industry and since from about the age 4 or 5 I’ve been rebuilding motorbikes. I work for a company called H Sivyer Transport and we run our own fleet of 140 tipper and grab trucks. Every six weeks each truck comes in for inspection and repair to keep them roadworthy and up to the legal standards. 

I like being an apprentice as I get hands on experience, earn a wage at the same time and get a qualification. I find what I learn on the programme very helpful in the workplace as I’ve never stripped an engine down at work but I’ve done that at College. The theory and practical side of the programme backs up stuff that I’m doing at work.  

My parents were very supportive of me doing an apprenticeship as it was a way of me having a job when I left school. I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do, I just knew it would be something mechanical so I thought an apprenticeship would be the best option. I’m doing something that I absolutely love.  

Long term I’d like to carry on with what I’m doing, progressing as far as I can and perhaps become a workshop manager. I would definitely recommend coming to MidKent College as the staff are very helpful and supportive.