Brad Healey, Technical Engineering Apprentice

After I’d finished my A’ Levels at Barnsley College, I’d had enough of the classroom to be honest and I was ready for a change.  I still had ambitions to achieve a degree in mechanical engineering but I was unsure of the route.  Before I joined Gripple I’d already had a couple of roles in other firms so when the opportunity came about to join Gripple, I grabbed it with both hands.

In many ways I’d always really associated apprenticeships with vocational careers such as plumbing and construction skills but when the opportunity arose to pursue a degree apprenticeship, I really changed my view.  I’m not sure why more colleges and sixth forms don’t push apprenticeships; it makes absolute sense. 

I’m now three years into my degree with just 18 months of study left and a further six months to complete my end point assessment.  It definitely takes a lot of motivation to combine study and work but the rewards far outweigh any negatives.  I’m already well into my career with a solid position in Gripple, contributing to our innovation strategy on a daily basis which is really exciting.  I’m not up to my eye balls in debt which is one of the biggest bonuses and I’m saving up for a house, so everything is falling into place.  I’m studying at Sheffield Hallam University so I still get to enjoy student life and my weekly routine includes one day a week of study.  It works so well.  I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else.

Will Banks, Engineering Team Leader, is Brad’s manager and shares these words: “Brad is already enjoying a successful career within Gripple but there is no limit to his professional growth.  As a former apprentice, I know some of the challenges you encounter balancing study and work. Brad’s capacity in his role at Gripple and in his studies is phenomenal. His technical ability is matched by a really engaging communication style, which makes him incredibly approachable.  He is, without question, a leader for the future and the absolute definition of Gripple spirit.”