Following our recognition as one of the UK’s Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers, we wanted to introduce you to the incredible young professionals who make this achievement possible.
More Than an Award – A Commitment to Excellence
Being named among the UK’s Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers isn’t just an accolade we’re proud to display—it’s validation of something we’ve believed in from day one: that investing in young talent isn’t just good for business, it’s essential for the future of the electrical industry.
But this recognition isn’t really about us. It’s about them the seven exceptional apprentices who show up every day with enthusiasm, determination, and an ambition to be the best electricians they can be.
These aren’t just apprentices learning a trade. They’re the future leaders of our industry, and we’re honoured to be part of their journey.
Over the past weeks, we’ve been introducing our apprentices on social media, sharing their stories, their proudest moments, and their dreams for the future. Today, we want to bring all those stories together and show you what makes our apprenticeship programme and these young professionals truly special.
The Backbone of Our Success: Meet Our Apprentices
Billy Davies
Level 3 Electrical Apprentice
The Adaptable Learner Nominated for Apprentice of the Year
From Harlow, Billy perfectly embodies the spirit of our apprenticeship programme with his enthusiasm for variety and continuous learning.
His Approach:
“Every day brings something different, with plenty of opportunities to learn.”
Key Qualities:
- Always ready for new challenges
- Embraces variety in daily work
- Actively seeks out learning opportunities
- Adaptable and enthusiastic
Major Recognition:
Recently nominated for Apprentice of the Year, a testament to his exceptional progress, attitude, and contribution to our team.
Billy doesn’t just complete tasks, he actively seeks out learning opportunities and embraces every challenge that comes his way. This attitude of continuous learning and growth is exactly what the electrical industry needs.
His nomination for Apprentice of the Year reflects not just his technical ability but his attitude, professionalism, and the way he represents both Seen Services and the electrical industry. We couldn’t be prouder of his achievements.
Jack Halsey
Level 3 Electrical Apprentice
The Organised Contributor with International Dreams
From Stanstead Abbots, Jack thrives on the variety that electrical work offers, no two days are the same, and that’s exactly what he loves.
Daily Responsibilities:
- Starts each day organising materials for colleagues
- Contributing to major infrastructure projects
- Second fix and installation work
Proudest Moment:
Contributing to our DLR train station project and completing his first conduit bend, which gave him “a real sense of reward.”
Future Vision:
To run his own company and take on overseas projects, another apprentice with entrepreneurial ambitions and a global perspective.
Jack’s approach to starting each day by organising materials shows leadership qualities emerging early. He understands that successful projects depend on preparation and teamwork, not just individual technical skill.
Stanley Prigmore
Level 3 Electrical Apprentice
The Perfectionist Who Embraces Challenge
Stanley joined Seen Services in April 2024 after completing his Level 2 NVQ, and he’s quickly become known for his meticulous approach to complex tasks.
Specialisations:
- Second Fix installations
- Metal Conduit work
- Data Terminations
Proudest Moment:
Being selected for our Blackwall DLR project team a significant infrastructure project that showcased his developing skills on a high-profile site.
In His Own Words:
“Bending conduit is one of the harder things to do, but I like to challenge myself.”
Stanley’s attitude perfectly encapsulates what we look for in apprentices: someone who doesn’t shy away from difficulty but sees it as an opportunity to grow. His precision work on the DLR project demonstrated that with the right mindset and training, apprentices can contribute meaningfully to major infrastructure projects.
Shogun Lamsombut
Level 3 Electrical Apprentice
The Engineer-Turned-Electrician with Endless Opportunities
Born in Thailand and moving to the UK at age 10, Shogun brings a unique perspective and background in engineering to his electrical apprenticeship.
Background:
- Studied Engineering before choosing the electrical trade
- Been with Seen Services for a year
- Currently studying at New City College
Why He Chose Electrical:
“I chose electrical because the opportunities are endless.”
Shogun’s transition from engineering studies to hands-on electrical work demonstrates his understanding that practical skills combined with theoretical knowledge create the strongest foundation for a successful career. His engineering background gives him a unique perspective on problem-solving and system design.
Thomas White
Level 3 Electrical Apprentice
The Disciplined Achiever with Entrepreneurial Dreams
Thomas brings a unique background to his apprenticeship, seven years of judo training have instilled a discipline and focus that translates perfectly to electrical work.
Strengths:
- Measuring and bending conduit to precise specifications
- Hands-on practical problem-solving
- Strong work ethic and attention to detail
Learning Style:
Thomas thrives with hands-on learning over classroom theory, proving that apprenticeships offer the perfect environment for practical learners to excel.
Future Ambition:
To own his own electrical business—a goal we’re fully committed to helping him achieve.
Thomas represents the entrepreneurial spirit we see in so many of our apprentices. They’re not just learning to be employees; they’re developing the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become future business owners and industry leaders.
Oskar Curtis
Level 3 Electrical Apprentice
The Dedicated Linguist Who Starts at 4:30am
Originally from Harlow and fluent in Polish, Oskar joined us in September 2024 and has quickly impressed everyone with his dedication, literally. His 4:30am start time demonstrates a level of commitment that’s rare at any career stage.
What Drives Him:
• Passion for learning new techniques
• Attention to precision and getting things right
• Building camaraderie with the team
Proudest Moment:
“When I cut, bent and threaded a piece of 20mm conduit perfectly.”
That moment of pride when a complex task comes together flawlessly is what apprenticeships are all about. It’s not just about learning the theory; it’s about experiencing the satisfaction of skilled craftsmanship.
Fun Fact:
“I’ve learned how to have banter on site!”
This might seem trivial, but it speaks to something important: Oskar has integrated into our team culture, building the relationships and communication skills that are just as vital as technical ability in this industry.
Charlie Adkins
Level 3 Electrical Apprentice
The Fast Learner with Global Ambitions
Charlie is our newest team member, joining just three weeks before our Top 50 recognition, but he’s already making his mark.
Recent Achievements:
- Earned IPAF licence for MEWPs (Mobile Elevated Work Platforms)
- Focuses on containment and second fix tasks
- Rapidly adapting to site work and team dynamics
Career Goal:
To become a fully qualified electrician and work in Australia proof that our apprentices are thinking globally about their careers.
His Philosophy:
“I believe you learn a lot more through apprenticeships.”
Charlie’s rapid progress in just three weeks validates our training approach. By combining structured learning with real-world project experience, apprentices develop skills faster and more comprehensively than traditional education alone can provide.
What Makes Our Apprenticeship Programme Different
Real Projects, Real Responsibility
Our apprentices aren’t confined to training workshops or simple tasks. They work on significant projects like the Blackwall DLR train station, major infrastructure work that demands precision, professionalism, and skill.
This hands-on experience on high-profile projects gives them:
- Confidence in their abilities
- Understanding of industry standards and expectations
- Experience with complex, multi-phase projects
- Exposure to different sectors (rail, commercial, industrial, energy)
Mentorship, Not Just Management
Every apprentice is paired with experienced electricians who remember what it was like to be in their shoes. Our mentors don’t just delegate tasks, they explain the ‘why’ behind every technique, share decades of accumulated knowledge, and invest in each apprentice’s long-term success.
Diverse Experience Across Sectors
Working with Seen Services means exposure to multiple sectors:
- Commercial installations – offices, retail, hospitality
- Industrial facilities – manufacturing, warehouses, heavy industry
- Energy sector – renewables, power systems, efficiency projects
- Transport – stations, signalling, SISS-certified work
This diversity means our apprentices graduate with broader experience than those who work in single-sector companies.
Pathway to Business Ownership
What struck us most when talking to our apprentices was how many of them aspire to own their own electrical businesses. Thomas, Jack, and others have explicitly stated this ambition.
We don’t see this as a threat, we see it as validation that we’re training future industry leaders. Our goal isn’t just to create employees; it’s to develop skilled professionals who will elevate the entire electrical contracting industry.
Culture of Continuous Learning
From Oskar’s 4:30am starts to Billy’s enthusiasm for daily variety, our apprentices are surrounded by a culture that values:
- Precision and quality over speed
- Asking questions and seeking understanding
- Learning from mistakes without fear
- Supporting teammates and sharing knowledge
- Taking pride in craftsmanship
The Business Case for Apprenticeships
Why We Invest in Young Talent
Some might question the investment required for apprenticeships, the time, training, supervision, and patience needed to develop raw talent into skilled electricians.
But we’ve seen the return on that investment:
- Skills Tailored to Our Standards
Our apprentices learn our methods, our quality standards, and our approach to client service from day one. They’re not just trained electricians, they’re Seen Services electricians. - Long-Term Team Stability
Apprentices who train with us develop loyalty and commitment. They’re not job-hopping, they’re building careers with a company that invested in them. - Fresh Perspectives
Young professionals bring new ideas, enthusiasm, and up-to-date knowledge from their college courses. They challenge us to stay current and innovative. - Meeting Industry Demand
The UK faces a critical shortage of skilled electricians. By training our own, we’re ensuring we can meet client demand while contributing to solving the industry-wide skills gap. - Reputation and Recognition
Being named a Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employer enhances our reputation with clients, partners, and future talent. It demonstrates our commitment to excellence and long-term thinking.
The DLR Project: A Case Study in Apprentice Contribution
The Blackwall DLR train station project deserves special mention because it perfectly illustrates what our apprentices are capable of.
This wasn’t a small commercial fit-out or routine maintenance, this was a significant rail infrastructure project requiring:
- SISS certification compliance
- Precision electrical installation
- Coordination with multiple contractors
- Adherence to strict safety protocols
- Work in a live transport environment
Stanley, Jack, and others contributed meaningfully to this project, working alongside our most experienced electricians. Their involvement wasn’t token or superficial, they performed real work that met the exacting standards required for rail infrastructure.
The pride they expressed about being part of this project wasn’t just about the prestige, it was about the confidence that comes from knowing you can handle complex, high-stakes work
Advice for Other Businesses Considering Apprenticeships
Based on our experience earning Top 50 recognition, here’s what we’d tell other SMEs considering apprenticeship programmes:
- Commit Fully or Don’t Start
Half-hearted apprenticeship programmes fail. You need dedicated mentors, structured training, and genuine investment of time and resources. - Look for Attitude Over Experience
Technical skills can be taught. Work ethic, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn cannot. Charlie’s philosophy “I believe you learn a lot more through apprenticeships” is the attitude you want. - Give Them Real Responsibility
Don’t relegate apprentices to fetching tools and cleaning up. Give them meaningful work on real projects. That’s where real learning happens. - Celebrate Their Achievements
From Billys Apprentice of the Year nomination to Oskar’s perfect conduit work, recognising achievements builds confidence and motivation. - Think Long-Term
Apprenticeships are a 3-4 year investment. Don’t expect immediate returns. But the long-term benefits skilled, loyal team members who embody your company values are immeasurable.
What’s Next for Our Apprentices
As we look ahead, we’re excited about the futures these young professionals are building:
- Billy’s Apprentice of the Year nomination is just the beginning of what we expect will be an exceptional career, his adaptability and enthusiasm position him as a future industry leader
- Jack is developing the leadership and organisational skills needed to run his own company
- Stanley will continue developing his specialisation in complex conduit work and data installations
- Shogun’s engineering background combined with hands-on electrical expertise will serve him well in tackling complex technical challenges
- Thomas is on track to achieve his dream of business ownership
- Oskar’s dedication and precision will open doors to increasingly complex projects
- Charlie is building the foundation for his international career ambitions
The Future of the Electrical Industry
The electrical industry faces significant challenges:
- An aging workforce with many experienced electricians nearing retirement
- Increasing complexity with smart systems, renewables, and EV infrastructure
- Growing demand for electrical services across all sectors
- A persistent skills shortage
Apprenticeships aren’t just nice to have, they’re essential for the industry’s survival and growth.
Every business owner in our sector has a choice: complain about the skills shortage, or do something about it.
We chose to do something about it.
And looking at Stanley, Thomas, Oskar, Charlie, Jack, Shogun, and Billy, seeing their skills develop, their confidence grow, and their ambitions take shape, we know we made the right choice.
Join Us in Investing in the Future
Whether you’re:
- A business owner considering starting an apprenticeship programme
- A young person exploring career options in the electrical trade
- A parent or educator advising students about vocational training
- A client who values working with companies that invest in quality and long-term excellence
We encourage you to see apprenticeships not as a cost, but as an investment in the future.
The electrical industry needs talented, trained, passionate professionals. Our Top 50 recognition proves that when you commit to developing that talent, everyone benefits.
Interested in Joining Our Team?
We’re always looking for the next generation of talented apprentices. If you’re:
- Enthusiastic about learning a skilled trade
- Ready to work hard and embrace challenges
- Interested in diverse projects across multiple sectors
- Ambitious about building a long-term career
We’d love to hear from you.
Visit our Careers page or contact us directly to learn about current and upcoming apprenticeship opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Being named one of the UK’s Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers is an honour we’ll treasure. But the real reward isn’t the recognition, it’s watching these seven young professionals develop into skilled electricians, confident team members, and future industry leaders.
Every single day, they show up with great attitudes, eager to learn new skills, and massive ambition to be the best electricians they can be.
That’s what makes us a Top 50 employer.
That’s what makes us proud.
And that’s why we’ll continue investing in apprenticeships for years to come.