Matt’s Story

Job title: Machine Shop Manager

Company: Watson Marlow Fluid Technologies Solutions

Course: Level 3 Team Leader Supervisor Apprenticeship

Meet Matt, who has recently been crowned as the Management Apprentice of the Year at this year’s Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards. This recognition highlights Matt’s dedication as he transitioned from a team leader role to a managerial position through a well-structured apprenticeship programme.

Seeking career progression and armed with the aspiration to acquire proven management and leadership skills, Matt engaged in a pivotal career discussion with Watson Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions’ Human Resources team. The outcome was the identification of a Level 3 Team Leader Supervisor Apprenticeship at Truro and Penwith College that promised to equip Matt with the necessary skills and knowledge to smoothly transition into his coveted managerial role.

The apprenticeship provided Matt with a unique opportunity to be seconded from his team leader role into a managerial position at Watson Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions. This move allowed him to actively manage a department, demonstrating his ability to lead a team of highly skilled engineers and meet the business’s evolving needs.

Matt has played a crucial role in spearheading a project of significant financial magnitude. His efforts have afforded the machine shop a platform to showcase their expertise, enhancing the department’s reputation. This initiative underscores the department’s proficiency and willingness to collaborate with other departments to advance the overall business objectives. The machine shop now experiences an increased sense of inclusion and value within the organisation. Various departments are now approaching them to seek support which is indicative of the positive impact Matt’s leadership has had on interdepartmental collaboration.

The synergy between theoretical knowledge gained at college and its practical application in the workplace proved to be instrumental in cementing Matt’s understanding and refining his skills. He appreciated the well-rounded learning approach that the apprenticeship offered, seamlessly blending classroom education with on-the-job experience.

The unwavering support Matt received from both his manager, Ian, and the College played a pivotal role in his success. Regular review meetings with Ian, coupled with Project Management training and financial advice, allowed Matt to bridge the gaps in his knowledge. Matt highlighted the crucial role played by Ian, stating; “The taught sessions provided the knowledge and skills required, and then Ian helped to develop my understanding and ability to manage both [project management and finance control].”

Matt praised his Training Advisor, Karen, for her consistent support throughout the course. From offering guidance on resources to providing one-to-one sessions to help Matt catch up after paternity leave, Karen played a crucial role in helping Matt balance family life with his course commitments. The structured nature of the apprenticeship, combined with the diverse experience and knowledge of the tutors, contributed significantly to Matt’s career progression.

Matt highly recommends apprenticeships as an effective way to learn on the job. The College’s collaboration with employers ensures that the content remains relevant and aligns with current industry practices. Matt’s positive experience underscores the value of apprenticeships in fostering career growth and skill development.